The Resource Justice Network (RJN) Niger State Chapter has called on the Niger State Government to urgently establish a permanent State Stakeholders Roundtable Platform.
This platform, according to stakeholders, is meant to strengthen the solid minerals business environment, protect host communities, and improve transparency and accountability in the extractive industry.
The demand was contained in a communique issued at the end of a one-day engagement on community monitoring in the extractive industry.
The workshop brought together community advocates, civil society organisations, environmental experts and local representatives to review the impacts of mining activities across the state.
Participants identified three main problems. Community Development Agreements (CDAs) provided for under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act are poorly implemented, leaving host communities without basic amenities. Unregulated and illegal mining continues to cause serious environmental damage and poses health and security risks.
The absence of structured dialogue among mining operators, regulators, the state government and host communities has created suspicion and discouraged sustainable investment, according to participants.
RJN urged the Executive Governor to immediately set up a permanent multi-stakeholder roundtable that includes state actors, civil society, mining investors and host community leaders.
It also called for clearer governance structures, streamlined regulatory processes and stronger action against illegal mining to attract responsible local and international investment.
The group demanded collaboration with federal agencies to monitor and enforce CDAs so that mining companies deliver tangible benefits such as potable water, healthcare and infrastructure.
It further called for public disclosure of mineral exploration partnerships and revenue streams in line with global transparency standards.
The Resource Justice Network is a coalition that promotes transparency, accountability and sustainable natural resource governance through civic campaigns and community monitoring.
