Cracking Down on Unqualified Individuals in Nigeria’s Mining Industry
The federal government of Nigeria is taking a decisive stance against unqualified individuals in the country’s extractive industry, underscoring the importance of professionalism in the sector. This initiative is intended to ensure that only competent professionals are granted operating licenses in the mining industry, as articulated by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Oladele Alake, during the 13th Induction ceremony and accreditation, certificate presentation organized by the Council of Nigeria Mining Engineers and Geoscientists.
Dr Alake emphasized the fundamental significance of the solid mineral sector as a substantial source of wealth for Nigeria. He unequivocally stated that, effective immediately, no Mining Engineers or Geoscientists will be acknowledged by the Ministry of Solid Minerals without COMEG registration. Any individual operating without this registration will be deemed as unqualified, and their reports will not be accepted without the stamp of COMEG registration.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to diversifying the country’s economy by tapping into the nation’s abundant mineral resources, aligning with the government’s objective of reducing reliance on oil for economic development.
In congratulating the inductees, Dr Alake urged them to consistently seek opportunities for learning and development, reminding them of their pivotal role in restoring the country’s former economic glory. The induction ceremony also witnessed the president of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS), Prof. A. S. Olatunji, represented by Prof. Shedrack, conveying a message of support for the program’s significance in enhancing professionalism within the industry for national growth.
The event also included the symbolic presentation of the COMEG Accreditation Certificate to the Vice Chancellor of Al-hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Prof. Noah Yusuf, by Minister Oladele Alake. This further underscores the government’s commitment to upholding professionalism and standards in the extractive industry.
The Registrar of COMEG, Prof. Zachaeus Opafunso, expressed his delight at the induction of Mining Engineers who successfully passed both written and oral examinations, with online examinations also offered to members based in diaspora. The induction ceremony represents a significant milestone in the industry’s pursuit of professionalism and excellence.
These endeavours by the federal government to clamp down on unqualified individuals in the mining industry demonstrate a clear commitment to upholding standards and promoting the growth and development of Nigeria’s extractive sector. It also serves as a call to aspiring professionals to take their training and responsibilities seriously, bearing in mind the pivotal role they play in shaping the country’s economic future.
