The Federal Government says it is implementing policies to strengthen environmental health regulations and reduce health risks in mining communities across the country.
Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Solid Minerals Development Fund, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Shinkafi, made this known while delivering a lecture at the inauguration of the first set of postgraduate students in Medical Geology at Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
Medical Geology is a newly introduced programme aimed at training postgraduate students from relevant disciplines in geological sciences. The programme focuses on tackling health hazards associated with geological materials and processes, particularly exposure to toxic minerals in mining areas.
In her presentation titled “Safe Mining, Chemical and Economic Diversification,” Hajiya Shinkafi recalled the devastating lead poisoning incident in Zamfara State in 2010, which claimed the lives of over 700 children. She noted that since then, many artisanal miners in Nigeria continue to face harmful effects from exposure to toxic substances.
She described the Medical Geology programme as the first of its kind globally and said it will accelerate the government’s efforts to implement policies that safeguard the health and environment of mining communities.
Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University Keffi, Professor Sa’adatu Liman, said the decision to introduce the programme was informed by the growing artisanal mining activities across Nasarawa State.
She emphasized that the initiative will provide scientific data and evidence to inform policies and best practices that reduce exposure to harmful substances and mitigate health risks.
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, applauded the Federal Government and international partners for supporting the university in achieving what he described as a significant breakthrough for human safety.
Some of the pioneer students expressed enthusiasm for the programme, stating their commitment to engaging in rigorous research aimed at addressing the health challenges faced by mining communities due to hazardous minerals.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals, Mr. Gaza Gbuefi, pledged legislative support to ensure the smooth implementation and sustainability of the programme.
Meanwhile, Hajiya Shinkafi announced the appointment of Dr. Kitso Ngarvu as the pioneer Head of the Medical Geology programme. She also revealed, on behalf of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, that the sum of ₦50 million will be released annually to support the programme’s take-off and development.(Radio Nigeria)
