The Enugu State Government has rolled out stringent mining regulations to formalize the sector, enhance safety standards, and guarantee equitable revenue distribution for communities hosting mineral resources. Announced by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, the reforms respond to years of unregulated mining linked to over 20 fatalities in poorly managed sand and burrow pits across the state. Spearheaded by the Office of the Special Adviser on Solid Minerals and Mining, the measures mandate all operators—including pit owners, tipper drivers, and excavators—to register with the Ministry of Solid Mineral Resources, submit worker lists, and adhere to strict safety protocols certified by experts.
A unified Burrow Pit Owners Union will centralize oversight of mining activities, while price adjustments within the sector now require ministry approval to prevent arbitrary hikes. The reforms also introduce mandatory community development levies, ensuring host communities receive direct financial benefits from mining operations. Additionally, all mining communities must establish Community Mining Committees within seven days, with membership lists submitted for government review and inauguration.
The state emphasized zero tolerance for unsafe practices, underscoring commitments to traceability and transparency. Regular inspections will enforce compliance, with operations halted in unsafe pits.
