FCTA INTENSIFIES REGULATORY OVERSIGHT, INSPECTS QUARRY AND MINE SITES IN TERRITORY.

By: Dorcas Babalola

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), through its Department of Solid Minerals and Allied Matters (DSMAM), has reaffirmed its commitment to safe and lawful mining operations following a comprehensive inspection of some quarry and mine sites in the Bwari areas of the territory recently.

Leading one of the inspection teams, Deputy Director of the Quarry and Economic Ecology Division, Timothy Shemang, stated that the operation was a direct response to the administration’s mandate to safeguard lives, protect the environment, and ensure operators adhere strictly to best practices within the sector.

One of the inspection teams focused on critical compliance areas, including operational safety, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), environmental management practices, and the verification of essential statutory documents such as valid operating licenses, surface rent receipts, and mine clearance permits.

During the exercise, Shemang stressed that the administration is committed to building a robust relationship with operators through transparent regulation. However, he issued a stern warning that the FCTA will not tolerate illegal operations. “Any operator who fails to pay surface rent or obtain the required clearance permit risks sanctions, including suspension or closure,” he cautioned, highlighting the administration’s resolve to enforce the Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) approved for the FCT.

The department’s proactive stance comes amid growing concerns regarding unregulated quarrying activities and their environmental impact on the capital city, with recent geologic events emphasizing the need for strict regulation of industrial rock blasting in vulnerable areas.

While some of the sites visited were found to be compliant, others were issued compliance notices to address specific lapses in PPE usage, safety signage, and documentation. The Deputy Director used the opportunity to urge mining companies to cooperate with the department, noting that a safe mining environment is crucial for protecting both workers and host communities.

The DSMAM remains dedicated to ensuring that mineral resource management in the FCT is conducted in a manner that fosters industrial harmony and environmental sustainability.