By Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has urged global investors to utilise Nigeria’s geo-data digital platforms to access detailed information about the country’s rich mineral resources.
In a statement by his Special Adviser, Kehinde Bamigbetan, Alake made the call during the annual Mines & Money Conference at the Business Design Centre, Islington, UK. He highlighted Nigeria’s adoption of digital technology to facilitate business inquiries and ensure transparent transactions in the mining sector.
The minister introduced three key web platforms as essential resources for serious investors: the Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS), Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+), and the National Geo-Data Centre.
Describing the NMRDSS, Alake explained it as a dynamic web application providing read-only access to geo-scientific and geo-economic data, enabling users to analyse mineral locations and make informed decisions. “This resource allows investors to explore mineral occurrence environments while answering queries on hydrology, demography, geography, urban planning, and transportation,” he stated.
On the EMC+, Alake highlighted its efficiency in administering mineral titles through an online, real-time system. “Investors can research and plan their title applications remotely, provided they have the required data,” he said.
Alake assured the audience of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to expanding geological data acquisition and leveraging research from public and private institutions to enhance the value of these platforms. He commended African geoscientists for developing a new coding system to certify research reports, boosting the credibility of mineral data.
He emphasised Nigeria’s emerging role in the supply of critical minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements, positioning the country as a key player in the global green economy transition. “Our deliberate investment in accurate geoscientific data underscores our commitment to sustainability and the global fight against climate change,” he added.
The minister also stressed the importance of value addition in the downstream segment of the mining value chain, urging mining companies to collaborate with the government to unlock Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth. “The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise… Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey,” he said.
Among those present were Mark Bristow, President and CEO of Barrick; Mark Kristoff, CEO of Traxys; and Kate Southwell, General Counsel of Anglo American.
Earlier, Alake engaged investors visiting the Ministry’s exhibition booth to discuss potential opportunities in Nigeria’s mining sector.