The Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA) has celebrated the retirement and 60th birthday of its General Manager, Mrs. Olufunke Omidiran, in a grand ceremony that drew top Government officials, colleagues, family members, and well-wishers from across Oyo State.

The event brought together family members, colleagues, and well-wishers to honour Mrs. Omidiran’s years of dedicated service, exemplary leadership, and remarkable contributions to the growth and development of the Agency.

In his remarks, the Director-General of OYSMIDA, Mr. Abiodun Oni, congratulated the celebrant on attaining the milestone of retirement and her 60th birthday.

He commended her unwavering commitment, professionalism, and passion for excellence, noting that her legacy of diligence and integrity will continue to inspire staff and stakeholders of the Agency.

The Director-General described Mrs. Omidiran as a seasoned administrator whose impactful leadership strengthened the operations and reputation of the Agency during her tenure.

Also present at the ceremony were representatives of Permanent Secretaries and General Managers from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Oyo State, who joined in celebrating her outstanding service to the State.

The event featured goodwill messages, tributes, and presentations in recognition of her distinguished career, with prayers offered for a fulfilling retirement filled with good health, joy, and continued success.

…calls for Responsible Mining Practices

The Oyo State Government through the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency, (OYSMIDA) has engaged miners operating across the State to strengthen collaboration and promote responsible mining practices, with emphasis on the effective implementation of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) to ensure peaceful coexistence and sustainable development in host communities.

Speaking during the meeting, the Director General of the Agency, Mr. Abiodun Oni, stated that security concerns surrounding mining activities have brought the sector to the forefront of the State Government’s agenda.

He stressed that there is need for stronger cooperation among stakeholders to ensure a safe, orderly, and sustainable mining environment across the State.

Mr. Oni said the engagement also provided an opportunity to sensitise miners and other stakeholders on their roles and responsibilities in the effective implementation of the CDA, as well as compliance with the Executive Order guiding mineral development activities in Oyo State.

He noted that the Government is determined to prevent conflicts between miners and host communities, stressing that the State does not want situations where disagreements escalate into confrontations between operators and community members.

Mr. Oni emphasized the need for synergy among all stakeholders, noting that miners, community leaders, and relevant Government agencies must work together to maintain peace and order within mining communities.

He added that understanding and respecting clearly defined roles and responsibilities will help create a more sustainable and productive mining sector in Oyo State.

Also speaking, the General Manager, Mrs. Olufunke Omidiran, highlighted the importance of the Community Development Agreement (CDA), noting that it is a key framework designed to ensure that mining activities benefit host communities.

She explained that the agreement captures the interests of the community, the youth, and individuals, thereby promoting inclusive development and reducing potential conflicts.

Mrs. Omidiran advised stakeholders to fully embrace the CDA, stressing that the State Government places high value on transparency and accountability in the mining sector.

She further noted that creating a transparent and well-structured mining environment will not only foster trust among stakeholders but also position Oyo State as an attractive destination for more investors in the mining industry.

E-Signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Hon. Commissioner.missioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The Oyo State Government has officially launched a Joint Task Force aimed at eradicating illegal mining activities across the State, warning that anyone caught engaging in illegal trading or unauthorized mining operations will be made to face the full wrath of the law.

This declaration was made by the Director-General of the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA), Mr. Abiodun Oni, during the official launch and inauguration of the State Joint Task Force on Illegal Mining held at Babaaro, Igbeti.

According to Mr. Oni, “The Joint Task Force has come to stay in Oyo State. Anyone found engaging in illegal mining will be held accountable and prosecuted. The law will take its full course.”

He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering support, visionary leadership, and strong commitment to ensuring the security of his people and the protection of the State’s natural resources and environment.

He urged residents of mining communities to report suspicious activities. “If you see something, say something. We must all join hands to curb this menace,” he added.

As an incentive, Mr. Oni announced the provision of essential amenities such as a borehole to serve the community and as a sign of Government presence. He noted that if illegal mining is curbed, more developmental projects will follow.

Describing the launch as a pilot initiative, he expressed hope that it would be replicated in other parts of the State affected by illegal mining.

In her welcome address, the General Manager of OYSMIDA, Mrs. Olufunke Omidiran, described the new initiative as a strategic move to tackle the growing issue of illegal mining in Oyo State. She emphasized the core objectives of the initiative, which include identifying and protecting the environment and encouraging sustainable mining practices.

Mrs. Omidiran noted that the Task Force has been equipped with sufficient resources and infrastructure, urging all stakeholders to work together in promoting responsible resource management and safeguarding the environment.

Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Migrant and Homeland Security, retired Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration, Segun Adegoke, stated that the initiative reflects Governor Makinde’s mission to address insecurity comprehensively.

He noted that illegal mining is often linked to organized crime, including banditry and kidnapping. “This Joint Task Force includes all constitutionally recognized security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps. Oyo State is tackling the problem head-on,” he said.

Rtd ACG Adegoke stressed the Government’s intention to align mining operations with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007, ensuring environmental protection and community welfare while attracting genuine investors.

In separate remarks, representatives of key stakeholders—including Operation Burst, NSCDC, the Old Oyo National Park, and the Zonal Mining Officer charged the newly inaugurated Task Force to remain united, focused, and proactive in delivering timely intelligence and enforcing the law, while also enhancing security in the area.

The Oyo State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee has initiated a comprehensive community sensitization campaign to promote responsible mining practices, ensuring sustainable resource extraction while protecting the environment and the well-being of local residents.

The initiative, led by MIREMCO in collaboration with OYSMIDA, was conducted during a monitoring inspection across several communities, including Power Line Mechanic Village Ologuneru, Tipper Garage Ologuneru, Morakinyo Village, Oparinde Village, Akinyanran Village, and Akinware Village in Ido Local Government.

Speaking on the initiative, the MIREMCO Chairman, Mr. Abiodun Oni, represented by the General Manager, Mrs. Olufunke Omidiran, emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensuring that mining activities in the state are carried out safely, legally, and in an environmentally sustainable manner.

“We acknowledge the crucial role mining plays in economic development, but it must be done responsibly. This campaign aims to educate communities on the economic benefits, environmental impacts, and regulatory requirements of mining, empowering them to safeguard their land, health, and future,” Mrs. Omidiran stated.

Mrs. Omidiran further reiterated the State Government’s dedication to fostering a mining sector that harmonizes economic growth with environmental sustainability. She urged community leaders to collaborate in protecting the State’s natural resources for future generations.

Commending the Government’s proactive approach, Mr. Ismail Akinware, Youth Leader of Akinware Village, expressed gratitude and pledged the community’s cooperation in adhering to safe and responsible mining practices.