The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Samson Opeyemi Fatola, has unveiled a proposed bill aimed at creating jobs, promoting community development and unlocking the economic potential of Oyo State’s solid mineral resources.
Fatola, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, framed the legislation as a core pillar of his campaign for the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general election.
The proposed law aims to unlock the economic power of the state’s mineral reserves while ensuring that local towns and villages directly reap the financial rewards.
titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the Oyo State Solid Minerals Development and Regulatory Framework, and for Related Matters,” the proposal targets the structured exploration of marble, dolomite, granite, and gemstones.
Fatola emphasised that the framework ensures the benefits of resource extraction extend beyond private mining firms and government chests to reach the residents living near extraction zones.
Host Community Development Trust to Fund Local Infrastructure
A key feature of the proposed bill is the creation of a dedicated Host Community Development Trust. This mechanism would direct a fixed percentage of mining revenues straight into local projects, supporting community development through improved roads, schools, and medical facilities.
Fatola explained that the trust provides a clear channel for residents to gain from local resources, while building stronger cooperation between mining companies and the public.
Beyond direct funding, the bill encourages the construction of local mineral processing hubs for materials like marble and gemstones. Processing raw materials within Oyo State rather than exporting them raw would create local jobs, attract fresh investment, and increase the market value of the state’s natural wealth.
Tackling Illegal Mining and Protecting the Environment
To maintain law and order across the sector, the framework establishes a Joint Mineral Resources Management Committee. This body will coordinate key stakeholders, crack down on illegal mining operations, and enforce environmental compliance.
The legislation also addresses long-term environmental damage by setting up an Environmental Reclamation Fund. Mining operators must contribute to this fund, which pays to restore land once extraction work ends. Fatola noted that this rule protects host communities from suffering land degradation and long-term environmental hazards long after mining companies leave.
Aligning Legislative Strategy for 2027
Fatola stressed that the proposal will undergo extensive reviews with legal experts, government officials, mining firms, and host communities before taking final shape as a formal legislative bill. He also confirmed that the bill will strictly align with the Nigerian Constitution and federal laws governing national mineral ownership.
Looking ahead to the 2027 polls, Fatola reiterated that his legislative agenda relies on using federal office to pull in private investment, build sustainable mining in Nigeria, and deliver tangible community development for his constituents. He noted that Oyo State holds immense mineral wealth that can transform the regional economy if properly harnessed, processed, and regulated.
