Minister Calls for Revision of Mining Law to Ensure Community Consent
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has voiced the necessity of revising the mining law to mandate that investors obtain consent from communities prior to applying for mineral titles. This proposal is aimed at addressing the delays in processing applications and improving the overall perception and effectiveness of the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO).
During his initial official visits to the ministry’s agencies, Minister Alake emphasized the importance of addressing public grievances and enhancing operational procedures. He praised the Mining Cadastral Office for its efforts, while stressing the need for improvement in its operations.
The Director-General of the MCO, Obadiah Nkom, expressed his pleasure at hosting the Minister and affirmed the agency’s dedication to digitalizing its operations with the Electronic Mining Cadastral System. While this innovation has led to an increase in the number of applications, significant delays have occurred due to backlogs from the previous system.
Nkom reassured the Minister that efforts, in partnership with the World Bank-assisted Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification (MinDiver), are underway to streamline procedures and enhance operational efficiency.
Minister Alake urged the agency to address the public’s perception of its operations, emphasizing the need to eliminate issues related to licenses and dishonest dealings. He asserted that the agency must reform itself and alter the negative perception it currently holds.
At the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, Director-General Dr. Abdulrasak Garba underscored the agency’s role in generating geoscientific research information for the development of the mining sector. He also identified funding constraints as a challenge and sought the Minister’s intervention.
Minister Alake acknowledged the pivotal functions of the NGSA, emphasizing the critical role of its data in informing decision-making processes across various sectors. He encouraged the agency to strive for self-sustainability and creativity in addressing funding challenges.
During his visit to the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG), Minister Alake highlighted the agency’s role in accrediting and certifying mining professionals, ensuring quality control in the mineral sector. He discussed funding challenges and advised the agency to explore innovative ways to generate revenue and enhance its operations.
In conclusion, Minister Dele Alake’s proposals and engagements with the ministry’s agencies demonstrate a commitment to improving the operational procedures of the mining sector and addressing key challenges. The proposed review of the mining law and emphasis on community consent reflect efforts to promote transparency and efficiency in the issuance of mineral titles. As the ministry continues to collaborate with various stakeholders, these initiatives are expected to enhance the overall performance of the mining sector.
By adhering to formal language, addressing individuals respectfully, and citing authoritative sources, Minister Alake’s proposals and engagements are aligned with the goal of promoting transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s mining sector.
