Crackdown on Unqualified Workers in Mining and Geoscience Industry Ensures Professionalism and Safety
The federal government has adopted a firm position on the advancement of professionalism within the extractive industry by taking stringent measures against unqualified workers. This action is aimed at guaranteeing that Nigeria’s invaluable natural resources are managed by certified and well-trained professionals.
At the recent 13th Induction ceremony and accreditation, certificate presentation organized by the Council of Nigeria Mining Engineers and Geoscientists, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, stressed the crucial importance of ensuring that operating licenses in the mining industry are only granted to professionals. Dr. Alake underscored that moving forward, no Mining Engineer or Geoscientist will receive recognition from the Ministry of Solid Minerals without COMEG registration, and any unregistered individuals will be deemed unqualified.
Dr. Alake also highlighted the transition from reliance solely on oil for economic growth to the utilization of the country’s natural minerals for economic diversification. He emphasized the need for industry professionals to uphold high standards and engage in continuous learning, as the country looks to them to restore its former glory in the mining sector.
Professor Zachaeus Opafunso, the Registrar of the Council Of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists, expressed his satisfaction with the induction of mining engineers who have successfully passed examinations, including online assessments for members in Diaspora. Additionally, the President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, Professor A. S. Olatunji, underscored the significance of the induction program in enhancing professionalism within the industry for national growth.
The focal point of the event was the presentation of the COMEG accreditation certificate to the Vice Chancellor of Al- hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Professor Noah Yusuf by Dr. Oladele Alake. This symbolizes a commitment to upholding professional standards in the industry.
The federal government’s crackdown on unqualified workers in the extractive industry is a significant stride towards ensuring professionalism and safety in the mining and geoscience sector. Requiring COMEG registration for all Mining Engineers and Geoscientists is a clear statement about the importance of upholding professional standards in a sector that is crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Professionalism is indispensable in the extractive industry to ensure responsible and sustainable extraction of Nigeria’s valuable minerals. Recognizing mining and geoscience professionals who have demonstrated their qualifications through comprehensive examinations, including online assessments for members in Diaspora, demonstrates a dedication to upholding high standards within the industry.
As the country looks to diversify its economy and maximize the potential of its natural resources, ensuring that qualified professionals are at the forefront of the extractive industry is paramount. The symbolic presentation of the COMEG accreditation certificate to Vice Chancellor Professor Noah Yusuf further emphasizes the government’s dedication to promoting a culture of professionalism and excellence in the mining and geoscience industry.
