Resurgence of Mining Marshals Highlights Industry Support for Government Policy – Remarks by Minister Dele Alake
The mining industry in Nigeria is currently witnessing a significant increase in demand for Mining Marshals, indicating strong support for the government’s policies in the sector. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, addressed a mining conference at the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), highlighting the industry’s endorsement of the newly established 2,220-man Mining Marshals.
Mr. Alake disclosed that several companies have expressed interest in utilizing the services of the Mining Marshals, with three formal requests received within a mere two-hour period. This surge in demand has led to the deployment of Mining Marshals to various regions, including Osun, Kogi, Kwara, and Nasarawa, resulting in the successful apprehension of numerous offenders.
The Minister underscored the vital role of the Mining Marshals, describing them as the enforcement arm of the government’s strategy to combat illegal mining activities that threaten the stability of the sector. Additionally, Mr. Alake highlighted the success of the persuasive component of their approach, which encourages artisanal miners to form cooperatives and formalize their operations. This approach has led to the establishment of 152 new cooperatives between September last year and the previous month.
Furthermore, Minister Alake provided an update on the progress of the Seven-Point Agenda, outlining the significant strides made in purifying and repositioning the mining sector. With these ongoing efforts, Nigeria is set to emerge as a leading global mining destination.
Mr. Alake commended the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies for prioritising the mining sector and recognizing its strategic value in the government’s plans to diversify the economy. He stressed the importance of enriching the institute’s analysis of the sector and leveraging its recommendations to propel the sector towards fulfilling its mandate.
During his address, the Minister highlighted a crucial legislative development in the establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation, indicating that the House Committee on Solid Minerals Development is currently engaged in processes to enact relevant legislations. The corporation, intended to be largely private-sector driven, aims to foster efficiency and longevity, diminishing dependence on future government interference.
In line with the imperative of gathering comprehensive mineral data to de-risk the sector, Mr. Alake noted the successful completion of an aeromagnetic survey across the country in collaboration with the World Bank. This data analysis will facilitate informed investment decisions for potential investors, furthering the sector’s appeal to international players.
The Minister also discussed the operationalization of revised guidelines for Community Development Agreements (CDA), emphasizing the inclusion of plans for value addition alongside mining license applications as a federal government policy.
In addition to these achievements, Minister Alake expounded on the successful advocacy for value addition, citing the recent interest expressed by global mining company, Glencore, in Nigeria’s mining sector. His role as the chairman of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) reflects the government’s dedication to positioning Nigeria as a global mining destination.
In conclusion, Minister Alake urged the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies to leverage the summit to generate well-informed recommendations that will propel the sustainable development of the mining sector.
*Segun Tomori*
Special Assistant on Media
Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
29th April, 2024
