The MinDiver Project has been transitioned to the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development, focusing on enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector through collaboration, accountability, and sustainability. Launched in 2017, the project aims to leave a resilient and diversified sector by 2024, with emphasis on stakeholder involvement and international standards adherence.
The Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification (MinDiver) Project has officially transitioned to the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development in a handover ceremony in Abuja. This event signals the beginning of a new phase where the ministries will be responsible for advancing Nigeria’s mining sector initiatives. Launched in 2017 with World Bank funding, the MinDiver Project aims to cultivate a resilient, transparent, and diversified mining sector by 2024, significantly contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth. Permanent Secretary Dr Mary Ogbe highlighted the need for accountability and collaboration among heads of agencies within the ministry to ensure the project’s legacy endures. She urged stakeholders to align their goals with MinDiver’s activities to sustain the momentum beyond the project’s completion. Dr Ogbe stressed the importance of budgeting informed by clear project insights to ensure attributed investments deliver lasting benefits for Nigeria’s mining industry. The encouragement for a unified effort among stakeholders was reiterated, focusing on shared responsibility and ongoing commitment to MinDiver’s goals. Additionally, Dr Ogbe called on the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency to adhere to international testing standards for reliable data that could attract investments. She also introduced measures to enhance project management transparency and accountability. Dr Christopher Isokpunwu of the Ministry of Steel Development emphasized addressing external threats to the sector’s sustainability, advocating for cooperation among industry and policy leaders. Former Project Coordinator Engr Sallim Salam noted the project’s success rate of 75% and its focus on efficient sector management through enhanced institutional frameworks and trained personnel. The ceremony was attended by officials from various ministries and the World Bank, marking a significant collaboration for Nigeria’s economic agenda.
The MinDiver Project, initiated in 2017 with backing from the World Bank, was designed to enhance Nigeria’s mineral resources sector and promote economic diversification. Its primary goals include increasing transparency, resilience, and the overall effectiveness of the mining industry, ultimately aiming to bolster Nigeria’s economic landscape. The recent handover signifies the shift towards local governance and sustainability of the initiatives established under the project.
The handover of the MinDiver Project signals a pivotal shift towards sustainable management of Nigeria’s mineral resources by the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development. Key stakeholders are urged to align their efforts with the project’s objectives to ensure long-term benefits and economic diversification. The project’s legacy rests on collaboration among agencies and adherence to international standards, fostering an environment conducive to growth and investment in the mining sector.
Original Source: leadership.ng