From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

In a determined move to bolster security consciousness and curb the growing threat of illegal mining by foreign elements, the Cross River State Government, through its Anti-Illegal Mining Committee/Taskforce in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals Development, has embarked on a five-day sensitization tour across 10 Local Government Areas of the state.

Chairman of the Anti-Illegal Mining Committee/Taskforce, Prince Paul Effiong, described the situation as dire, warning that “Cross River State is sitting on a time bomb if the activities of illegal miners are not urgently curtailed. ”He underscored the immense natural and mineral wealth of the state, stressing that when properly harnessed; it could drive sustainable development and boost the state’s economy. “Illegal mining is not only destroying our environment, but also threatening public health and security,” Effiong stated.“Our farmlands and forests are being ravaged. Toxic chemicals are seeping into our water sources, raising the risk of cholera, cancer, and other diseases. We must act now.”He also cautioned communities to be vigilant against bribery and manipulation by illegal miners. “They come bearing cash, gifts, and false promises, but their intention is to divide and exploit,” he said.Effiong further raised security concerns about the unchecked movement of foreign nationals into forested areas. “With the rising insecurity in the country, we must be cautious about who we allow access to our communities. Many of these foreigners arrive in numbers without registration or profiling—it’s a ticking security threat.”In Boki Local Government Area, the Executive Chairman, Hon Beatrice Etta Nyiam, emphasized the urgency of the sensitization initiative. “The alarming influx of unidentified individuals engaging in unauthorized mining in our hinterlands is deeply concerning,” she said.“I call on our traditional rulers and youths to work with the anti-illegal mining team. This is not just about minerals; it’s about protecting our heritage and the future of our children.”Federal Mines Officer, Ayelabola Bumi, noted that Cross River is blessed with vast mineral deposits, but warned against misuse. “God has blessed this land abundantly. Let us guard His gifts jealously so that He will not regret bestowing them upon us,” he said.“Illegal miners extract what they want with no regard for the environment or host communities. The devastation they leave behind is ours to deal with.”Also speaking, the State Security Adviser, Major General Okoi Obono (rtd), acknowledged that Cross River has a longstanding reputation for peace and hospitality but warned that the influx of unidentifiable strangers poses a clear risk.“Cross River remains committed to being a safe haven, but we must tighten our security systems,” he stated. “Most of these people come at night, and their identities remain unknown. There must be proper documentation and profiling of every visitor entering our communities.”He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the safety of its citizens: “Security is our shared responsibility. It is paramount and non-negotiable.”Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, appealed to community leaders to take a principled stance. “Mining is a legitimate economic activity, but not when it’s done illegally or at gunpoint,” he warned.“Our traditional institutions must avoid sharp practices. Don’t mortgage the future of your communities for temporary gains. If mineral resources are exploited legally, the Corporate Social Responsibility of companies will ease the burden on the government and improve our living standards.”Edet also encouraged community members to report suspicious activities without hesitation. “Timely information can save lives and protect our environment.”In his closing remarks, His Royal Majesty Otu Fredaline Akandu lauded Governor Bassey Otu for establishing the Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and pledged full support from the traditional institution.“We will stand side by side with the government to protect our land, our people, and our future,” he declared.The sensitization campaign aimed to create synergy among the three tiers of government, share vital knowledge, and develop sustainable strategies for effective resource management. It also sought to enhance environmental preservation, strengthen community vigilance, and foster long-term security and development in Cross River State.