C'RIVER ILLEGAL MINING: A CALL TO PROTECT CROSS RIVER'S LAND AND FUTURE-JOSEPH EKAMOTI AGBOR.

 By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu

The Cross River State Government through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Solid Minerals, Comrade Joseph Ekamoti Agbor, has issued a strong and urgent call to action against the growing menace of illegal mining, which is wreaking havoc across the state’s environment and communities.

In a passionate appeal Comrade Agbor is mobilizing residents, stakeholders, and traditional institutions to join forces in defending Cross River’s natural heritage and economic future from exploitation and irreversible damage.

Hence, illegal mining activities, often carried out without regard for environmental laws or community welfare, have left a trail of destruction, from deforestation and soil erosion to polluted rivers and abandoned farmlands; Beyond environmental degradation, these unregulated operations deprive the state of vital revenue, endanger the lives of local workers, and erode the foundations of legal and sustainable development.

The government warns that continued silence and inaction could cost the State far more than just its resources, it could cost future generations their inheritance.

Read Full Text of Press Release Below:

SAYING NO TO ILLEGAL MINING: A CALL TO PROTECT CROSS RIVER'S LAND AND FUTURE.

Cross River State, nestled in the heart of Nigeria's lush southeastern corridor, is a land blessed with immense natural wealth. Beneath its fertile soils lie valuable mineral resources—gifts of nature that, if properly harnessed, could transform lives, drive economic growth, and uplift communities across the state.

But today, that promise is under threat.

Illegal mining, a shadow industry operating outside the bounds of law and regulation, is rapidly eroding our land, polluting our waters, and endangering lives. What should be a source of pride and progress has become, in many places, a cause for concern and devastation. Forests are being razed. Rivers once teeming with life are now poisoned by chemical runoff. Farmlands are left barren, and communities suffer the consequences.

The damage is not only environmental—it is economic and deeply human. Illegal mining robs our people of jobs, steals from state revenue, and undermines the rule of law. It puts lives at risk through unsafe practices, collapses, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

The Cross River State Government, through the Office of the Special Adviser on Solid Minerals, is calling on all residents to take a stand—for the land, for the people, and for the future. Let us embrace legal, responsible, and sustainable mining practices that create lasting opportunities, not short-term destruction. Let us choose stewardship over sabotage.

Now is the time to act. Communities must be vigilant. Citizens must speak out. Anyone aware of illegal mining activities is urged to report them to the appropriate authorities. Together, we can protect our shared heritage.

Cross River is more than just a state rich in resources—it is a land of hope, resilience, and possibility. Let us not allow illegal mining to steal that future.

Say No to Illegal Mining.

Protect Our Land. Preserve Our Future.

This message is brought to you by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Solid Minerals.

Signed:

Comrade Joseph Ekamoti Agbor

Special Adviser to CRS Governor on Solid Minerals.