Making Strides in Nigeria’s Minerals and Metals Sector at NCMMRD Conference
In a concerted effort to advance sustainable development in Nigeria’s minerals and metals sector, the National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) has convened a pivotal meeting. Dr. Mary Ogbe, the permanent secretary overseeing the ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, emphasized the importance of the gathering as a crucial platform to shape the future of the sector.
Delivering her address at the opening ceremony of the fifth edition of the NCMMRD meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State, Ogbe conveyed her optimistic outlook for the discussions, stating, “We are here as stakeholders in the sector to deliberate on the best way forward so that we can fully utilize the blessings of the minerals and metal sector bestowed upon us by nature.”
The theme of the meeting, “Minerals and Metals Sector: A Panacea for Economic Growth and Diversity,” mirrors the ongoing global transition from fossil fuels to green energy. Ogbe underscored the need for Nigeria to align with this global shift, considering the nation’s wealth of energy minerals. She acknowledged the sector’s pivotal role in achieving economic prosperity and diversity in the country.
Ogbe extended her appreciation to representatives from various government agencies, private sector entities, and stakeholders, underscoring their commitment to the growth and advancement of the mineral and metal resources sector. She emphasized the meeting’s role in actualizing President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda for the sector.
The agenda for the meeting includes deliberations on policy reforms, investment opportunities, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and fostering innovation in the sector. Ogbe stressed the need to address key issues affecting the sector and carve out a path for progress.
Mrs. Funke Sokoya, the permanent secretary of the Kwara State Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, welcomed participants and urged the ministers and council members to effectively implement the resolutions agreed upon during the annual meetings. She highlighted the importance of addressing challenges such as illegal mining and community development agreements (CDA), which are evident in the sub-themes of the event.
According to a statement by the ministry’s deputy director, information and Public relations, Alaba Balogun, dignitaries present at the opening ceremony included the Kwara State Commissioner for the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, Alhaji Abdulquawiy Olododo, representing the Kwara State governor, as well as directors of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development/Steel Development and the director-general of agencies of both ministries.
The NCMMRD meeting serves as a crucial forum for stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and collectively contribute to the strategic development of the minerals and metals sector in Nigeria. It provides an opportunity for productive discussions on the way forward for the sector, with the aim of driving sustainable growth and development.
In conclusion, the NCMMRD meeting in Ilorin represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s minerals and metals sector for the nation’s economic growth and diversity. The collaboration and engagement of various stakeholders in charting the course for the sector’s future underline the collective commitment to its sustainable development.
