In a move aimed at enhancing the management of mineral resources and environmental sustainability in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has signed three executive orders, establishing two new agencies and restraining traditional rulers from signing memoranda of understanding (MOUs) on land matters.
According to Kayode Akinmade, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, the new agencies are:
- Ogun State Mineral Resources Development Agency: responsible for conducting geo-technical and geological surveys, maintaining data on solid mineral deposits, and organizing the solid minerals sector.
- Ogun State Landscaping and Recreation Agency: tasked with sustaining environmental regeneration and restoration efforts through parks, gardens, and recreational centers.
The third executive order prohibits traditional rulers from entering into agreements or MOUs concerning mining activities or land matters in their domains, effective immediately. This move aims to prevent circumvention of regulations and government oversight, which has been a significant challenge in the state’s mineral resources management.
The establishment of the two agencies and the restraint on traditional rulers’ signing of MOUs demonstrate Governor Abiodun’s commitment to ensuring effective governance and sustainable development in Ogun State. The executive orders take immediate effect, and funding for the agencies will come from regulatory fees, budgetary allocations, grants, and international development partners.
Traditional rulers who flout the order will face sanctions under the Kings and Chiefs’ Law and other relevant criminal statutes. This development marks a significant step towards enhancing the state’s mineral resources management and environmental sustainability, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of citizens in Ogun State.
In a related development, the Governor’s aide stated that the executive orders are in line with Section 5(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which vests the governor with the exercise of executive powers for effective governance.
The agencies will work closely with host communities and local governments to ensure the successful implementation of their objectives.
The governor’s aide said the three executive orders take immediate effect. The move has been praised by stakeholders in the state, who see it as a bold step towards ensuring sustainable development and effective governance in Ogun State.
