Uyo, Akwa Ibom (Nigeria): The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) has called on authorities to enforce compulsory geoscientific investigations before any mining operations commence, stressing that such measures are critical to safeguarding the environment and ensuring sustainable resource exploitation.
The President of the Society, Ms Rose Ndong, made the remark on Saturday in Uyo at a press conference that was part of the activities marking the 261st National Council Meeting of NMGS.
Ndong said that such investigations would not only serve as a foundation for sustainable infrastructure development but also enhance environmental management.
She further decried the prevalence of illegal mining activities in the country, adding that beyond economic loss, the resulting environmental degradation is particularly worrisome.
Highlighting ongoing challenges, Ndong noted pushback from those engaging in such practices and advocated for greater public sensitisation to address the problem.
“NMGS will therefore continue to advocate for mandatory geoscientific investigations as a foundation for sustainable infrastructure development.
We are also considering how these minerals can be extracted safely and without unnecessary disruption.
Moreover, it is not only our Society but several partner organizations that are working together to sensitise people—especially women and young children involved at some sites,” Ndong said.
She added that looking ahead, the 61st Annual International Conference & Exhibition (AICE), Uyo 2026, would be held in March to further advance geoscientific knowledge and professional practice in the country.
The theme of the conference, she said, would be: “Optimising Efficiency, Sustainability and Resilience in Resources Management and Infrastructure Development.”
Ndong explained that the chosen theme reflects the urgent need to manage Nigeria’s natural resources responsibly while building safe, durable, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
“The Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE) is NMGS’s flagship event and one of the largest geoscience gatherings in Africa.
She pointed out that the Uyo 2026 Conference will be significant in several respects, as it will provide a forum for knowledge exchange among academia, industry, and government.
It will also showcase emerging technologies and innovations in geosciences, strengthen Nigeria’s profile in global geoscientific discourse, and support evidence-based policymaking in resources and infrastructure development,” Ndong said.
Ndong also commended Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for the systematic transformation of geo-tourism assets to economic and scientific value as part of his Arise Agenda.
She noted that Akwa Ibom has demonstrated commendable commitment to geo-tourism and sustainable environmental development.
“A notable example is the ARISE Palm Resort, which integrates natural landscapes, geological features, and recreational and tourism infrastructure harmoniously.
Additionally, the state’s waterfront developments, extensive coastline, beach sands, wetlands, and estuarine systems represent significant geo-tourism assets, providing both economic and scientific value.
She further highlighted that Akwa Ibom is endowed with beach and construction sands, clay, laterite, gravel prospects, and other industrial minerals, as well as groundwater and surface water resources.
She concluded that the upcoming conference would provide an opportunity to scientifically showcase and promote the state’s resources to investors, researchers, and policymakers.
