The Nigerian government is totally committed to tapping into the country’s vast mineral resources and exploring investment opportunities that will drive economic growth and sustainable development. This was revealed by Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, during a pre-press briefing for the upcoming Nigeria Mining Week. The event, scheduled to take place in October 2023, aims to highlight the critical role of Nigeria’s mineral resources in fostering economic growth.
According to Ogbe, the Nigeria Mining Week serves as a platform for key stakeholders in the mining industry to come together and discuss the potential of Nigeria’s mining sector. The government is focused on creating a conducive business environment that showcases the diverse investment prospects available in the country. Ogbe emphasized that Nigeria has a rich history of mineral resources and is well-positioned to harness its mineral wealth for sustainable economic growth and development.
The Nigeria Mining Week provides ample networking opportunities for industry players, government representatives, and service providers. Collaboration and knowledge sharing are vital for driving the growth of the sector. The event will feature renowned international and local experts who will share insights on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the mining industry. Topics will range from exploration and production to sustainability and responsible mining practices, with a particular focus on global energy transition trends.
The President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, highlighted the importance of the Nigeria Mining Week in shaping the country’s mining landscape. The event has contributed to policy decisions that are gradually transforming the sector. Ayanleke emphasized the need for stakeholders to offer ideas to policymakers on how to turn Nigeria’s mineral resources into drivers of economic growth and development.
Samukelo Madlabane, the event director (mining portfolio) at Vuka Group, described the Nigeria Mining Week as a beacon of progress. He emphasized the transformative potential of unlocking Nigeria’s mining sector, which can stimulate infrastructure projects and significantly contribute to the country’s GDP. Madlabane also highlighted the discovery of battery metals within Nigeria’s borders, giving the country a competitive edge in the global battery metals market.
Habeeb Jaiyeola, head of the mining sector at PriceWaterhouseCooper Nigeria, expressed excitement about the government’s focus on the mining sector and the opportunities it presents. He called on local and international stakeholders to join the Nigeria Mining Week and contribute to building a formidable sector that benefits all stakeholders.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its mineral wealth is evident through initiatives like the Nigeria Mining Week. The government is dedicated to creating a conducive business environment and promoting collaboration among industry players. With its rich history of mineral resources and the discovery of battery metals, Nigeria has the potential to drive economic growth and sustainable development through its mining sector.