From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector through strategic reforms and inter-agency collaboration.
During the House Committee on Solid Minerals’ oversight visit to the Ministry’s headquarters , Dr. Alake outlined the Ministry’s progress under its comprehensive 7-point agenda. Key highlights include enhanced security frameworks, international investor engagement, and a focus on in-country mineral processing.
Dr. Alake announced the deployment of over 2,000 mine marshals to combat illegal mining, which has plagued Nigeria for decades. He revealed that nearly 300 illegal operators, including foreign nationals, had been apprehended in recent months, significantly curbing unauthorized activities.
“This renewed security architecture is already having a profound impact,” he noted. “Our commitment to safeguarding mining sites is a commitment to Nigeria’s stability and an invitation to investors who seek reliable partnerships.”
The Minister also emphasized the Ministry’s strides in attracting global investors. He outlined efforts to transform Nigeria into a global mineral hub, stressing the importance of value addition through in-country mineral processing.
This approach aims to retain wealth within Nigeria and foster sustainable growth, a vision that has culminated in the creation of the African Mineral Strategy Group, chaired by Dr. Alake.
Garza Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals Development, praised the Ministry’s initiatives and reiterated the Committee’s dedication to transparency, growth, and support for the sector.
However, he highlighted key challenges, such as limited funding for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to generate geological data critical for mineral exploration.
“Mineral exploration is highly capital-intensive, and sufficient funding is essential for reliable data production that drives sectoral growth,” Hon. Gbefwi stated, advocating increased financial support for the NGSA and Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF).
He also stressed the importance of transparent licensing and community consent processes to mitigate potential tensions when valuable resources are discovered.
“A well-managed consent framework is crucial for fostering harmony and minimizing conflicts,” he added.
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Mary Ogbe lauded the House Committee’s advocacy and support, acknowledging its role in empowering the Ministry to fulfill its mandate.
She emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a transparent and efficient environment for the sector while tackling challenges and creating sustainable opportunities.
“The recent advancements in policy initiatives and community relations are a result of this productive partnership,” Dr. Ogbe noted.
She assured stakeholders that the Ministry would continue to focus on job creation and economic diversification goals in collaboration with the Committee.
With these reforms, Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is poised to significantly boost its contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. Dr. Alake expressed optimism that the sector’s transformation would position Nigeria as a key player in global mineral markets, benefiting both the economy and local communities.”