The Petroleum Environmental Solid Minerals Degradation Awareness Association (PESMDAA) has announced plans to scale up advocacy for sustainable environmental practices and intensify the fight against illegal mining in Kwara State.
State Commissioner of the association, Abdulganiyu Aleshinloye, gave the assurance at the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Workshop for PESMDAA Taskforce Officers held on Saturday in Ilorin.
Aleshinloye described the taskforce as a vital frontline structure for mobilising against illegal mining and environmental exploitation, warning that such activities threaten public health, biodiversity, economic stability, and climate resilience.
He said PESMDAA will step up awareness creation and knowledge sharing to eliminate degradation and irregularities in the petroleum, environment, and solid minerals sectors.
Kwara State Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Hajia Nafisat Buge, represented by Mrs. Aliu Aminat, linked environmental degradation to wider crises such as drought, food insecurity, and communal conflicts.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s support for PESMDAA and called for stronger collaboration between researchers, local authorities, and security agencies.
Also, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Abosede Buraimoh, represented by Mr. Kunle Adimula, said the ministry is intensifying sensitization campaigns across communities, empowering traditional rulers to profile mining investors in line with the law.
She disclosed that work is underway on legislation to compel mining companies to reclaim degraded land for agricultural purposes.
In a paper presentation, environmental journalist Dare Akogun urged taskforce officers to act as the “first eye” and “first ear” of PESMDAA, with duties including monitoring environmental activities, reporting illegal mining, sensitising communities, and supporting law enforcement.
He stressed that many harmful practices occur due to ignorance, citing his investigations in Bani, Kaiama LGA, where abandoned mining pits have spread disease and destroyed farmland.
Associate Professor of Law at the University of Ilorin, Ahmad Hussein, advised members to familiarise themselves with the Mining Act and related legislation to ensure smooth and lawful operations.
The workshop gathered taskforce officers, environmental experts, legal practitioners, and government officials to strengthen PESMDAA’s operational effectiveness in safeguarding Kwara’s environment.
By Dare Akogun
