The achievements of Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and Director General of Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, in the mining industry have received high praise from 30 civil society organizations. Led by the Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative, these organizations have commended the leadership qualities of Dr. Dele Alake and Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom in driving President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the mining sector. They have emphasized the significance of diversifying the nation’s revenue from the oil sector to non-oil, noting that it has instilled hope for a new beginning in the country.
In a joint statement, the coalition has underscored Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and expressed approval of the ongoing reforms in the mining sector, aligning with the 7-point agenda set by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development. They particularly applauded the digitalization and reform of the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office under the leadership of Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, stating that it has positioned the office to compete effectively on the global stage.
Furthermore, the groups have voiced their confidence in the minister and the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, while cautioning against potential smear campaigns orchestrated by a group of individuals displaced by the administration. They have advised both the government and Nigerians to remain vigilant and guard against any attacks on the agency and its leadership.
According to the coalition, the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office has recorded an impressive 86% increase in revenue generation under the leadership of Nkom, surpassing previous figures. Former President Mohammadu Buhari has also acknowledged this achievement and reinstated Nkom for another term of four years.
The statement from the coalition has declared their unwavering support for Dr. Dele Alake and Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, highlighting their exceptional leadership in advancing the Renewed Hope agenda and the diversification of the nation’s revenue. The assessment conducted by the organizations in line with their civil society engagement and accountability programs led to the expressed vote of confidence in the minister and the Director General.
The coalition has expressed astonishment at the transformative reforms in the Ministry of Solid Minerals, particularly within the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office. They have noted that the fully digitalized and reformed agency has significantly contributed to the nation’s non-oil revenue, earning commendation for this achievement.
Amidst the ongoing reforms, the coalition has raised awareness of the potential resistance from entities involved in illegal and fraudulent mining activities, cautioning that measures should be taken to protect the agency, its staff, and the Director General. They have reaffirmed their commitment to support the agency and defend it legally to realize the vision of non-oil revenue sufficiency under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
