Nigeria actively seeks to glean valuable insights from Ghana’s expertise in managing the challenges of artisanal mining, as part of its drive to reinvigorate the nation’s solid minerals sector.
A delegation from the Ghana College of Defence Studies, led by Brigadier-General Fred Ntiri, recently engaged in discussions with Nigerian officials at the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Abuja. The focus of these discussions centred on the intricacies of artisanal mining practices.
Dr Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of Solid Minerals Development, represented by the Director of the Artisanal & Small Scale Mining Department, Yunnusa Muhammed, eloquently underscored the importance of drawing lessons from Ghana’s vast experience in tackling artisanal small-scale mining.
The Nigerian officials underscored President Bola Tinubu’s steadfast commitment to positioning Nigeria as a preeminent producer of solid minerals in Africa and across the globe. They also emphasized the imperative of overhauling the country’s artisanal mining sector to meet international standards.
Dr Ogbe expounded upon the transformative strides being made in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, attributing these reforms and strategies to the dynamic leadership of Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, with unequivocal support from President Bola Tinubu. The overarching vision is centred on making the solid minerals sector a fulcrum of the country’s broader economic diversification agenda.
Nigeria’s intensified focus on the solid minerals sector is geared towards amplifying revenue generation and enhancing the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), seeking to transition the nation away from its traditional dependence on oil.
Ghana’s sterling experience and achievements in the solid minerals sector were duly acknowledged, particularly the extensive presence of major mining companies in the country. Nigerian officials emphasized the importance of gleaning insights from Ghana’s approach to effectively manage the sector.
Brigadier-General Fred Ntiri, the leader of the Ghanaian delegation, articulated that their visit was a deliberate effort to gain practical insights into Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, aligning with the theme of their study visit on ‘Environment, Security & Development’.
The visit was also intended to facilitate the exchange of lessons and best practices that could contribute to the enhancement of artisanal mining and the overall advancement of the sector in both countries.
Dr Vivian Okono, the Director of the Mines Environmental Compliance Department, delivered invaluable insights into the organizational structure of the Ministry, the regulatory framework, and the functions of various departments, agencies, and government initiatives during the visit.
The interaction between Nigeria and Ghana marks a significant stride towards fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing in addressing challenges related to artisanal mining in both countries.
The visit also underscores the shared interest in promoting sustainable mining practices and harnessing the potential of the solid minerals sector for economic development and progress.
As Nigeria diligently pursues the revitalization of its solid minerals sector, the experience and guidance from Ghana are anticipated to make substantial contributions towards actualizing the country’s ambitions for the growth and sustainable development of the sector.