Makinde signs executive decree to protect mining communities

Oyo Gov. Seyi Makinde signed an executive decree on Monday to protect mining communities in the state from insecurity and exploitation.

Makinde also issued an executive order to establish the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

In his remarks, the governor stated that the signing will provide legal support for his administration’s efforts in the solid mineral and tourist sectors.

He said the two executive orders came against the backdrop of his administration’s decision to drive its economic expansion agenda through tourism development and solid mineral development.

The governor said: “Though mining activity is on the exclusive legislative list, the state government chose to be proactive in ensuring adequate protection of the mining communities against insecurity and exploitation, as well as on the attendant environmental issues.

“For some time now, we have been watching the developments within our mining communities, and we have to deal with security challenges around those communities.

“The second executive order is on the establishment of the ministry of culture and tourism because culture and tourism are major pillars in our roadmap for sustainable development, 2023-2027,” he said.