HON.PRINCE UGOCHUKWU NWANJOKU , THE NEWLY ELECTED AND SWORN IN EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF ANINRI LGA IN ENUGU STATE IS READY AND HAS COMMENCED WORKS AND MATCHING HIS WORDS WITH ACTIONS.
As Aninri LGA Intensifies Revenue Generation, Cracks Down on Illegal Mining
Aninri, Enugu State — In a strategic move to enhance the internally generated revenue (IGR) of Aninri Local Government Area (LGA), Executive Chairman, Prince Ugochukwu Nwanjoku, has escalated efforts to harness the area's abundant natural resources. In a closed-door meeting with federal, state, and local stakeholders responsible for the management of mineral resources, Nwanjoku outlined the critical need to optimize the local government’s revenue streams amid growing developmental demands.
During the meeting, the chairman highlighted the pressing financial challenges the council faces in fulfilling the high expectations of the populace regarding infrastructure and human capital development. He acknowledged that Aninri's current reliance on federal allocations was insufficient to meet these ambitious goals. As a result, the local government is looking inward, focusing on the rich deposits of metallic, non-metallic, and energy minerals scattered across the region, including limestone, magnesium, natural gas, iron ore, and phosphate.
"While we commend the federal allocation, it is evident that these funds are inadequate to tackle the vast developmental challenges before us. We must, therefore, aggressively pursue local opportunities to bridge the gap," Nwanjoku emphasized.
The chairman praised the efforts of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, for his innovative approach to revenue generation, which has significantly contributed to the state’s progress in various sectors. Nwanjoku assured that Aninri LGA would mirror such strides by fully tapping into its mineral wealth, ensuring that the economic potential of these resources is harnessed for the benefit of both the local population and the state at large.
He stressed that strict adherence to due process in mining operations would be non-negotiable, warning that any attempt to bypass established regulations or engage in illegal mining would be met with severe consequences. "No favoritism will be tolerated," Nwanjoku stated firmly. "Cutting corners not only undermines government revenue but also damages the integrity of the management process."
The chairman reiterated that contrary to circulating rumors, he had not allocated mining sites to any individuals or groups. Instead, he reaffirmed the local government's commitment to working closely with both state and federal authorities to ensure the proper management and equitable distribution of the area's mineral wealth.
“We are sitting on a goldmine of resources. Now is the time to act decisively and responsibly to ensure these riches are used to improve the lives of our people. But that starts with proper leadership and ensuring compliance with all legal frameworks,” he added.
Nwanjoku also issued a stern warning to illegal miners operating in the region, cautioning that their activities not only threaten the environment but also rob the government and citizens of valuable income that could be used for critical developmental projects such as infrastructure upgrades, employment generation, and technological advancement.
“Illegal mining will not be tolerated under any circumstances. We must work together to build a prosperous future, and that requires discipline and cooperation from everyone,” he concluded.
As Aninri LGA embarks on this renewed effort to boost its internally generated revenue, the local government calls on all stakeholders—both public and private—to collaborate in the responsible and efficient exploitation of its natural resources, ensuring sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
— End of Report —by Hon.Sunday Olisemeka dgn
This bold initiative is poised to elevate Aninri LGA’s economic standing, positioning it as a model for resource-rich local governments across Nigeria seeking to achieve self-sufficiency and robust growth.
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