Dr. Dele Alake announced reforms to position Nigeria as a global mining leader at the 2024 Nigeria Mining Week. Initiatives include the establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation, combating illegal mining, and creating a Centre of Excellence. President Bola Tinubu supports these reforms, aiming for responsible and efficient mining practices in Nigeria.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has declared that ongoing reforms will position Nigeria as a leading global player in mining. Speaking at the 2024 Nigeria Mining Week, he outlined initiatives to improve the sector’s integrity, enhance international partnerships, and attract investments. Central to these changes is the nearing establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation, aimed at facilitating joint ventures in mining. Alake detailed efforts against illegal mining through aggressive enforcement and community engagement, resulting in several arrests and the formation of 250 artisanal mining cooperatives. He expressed future plans for a multi-agency Mining Marshals squad, utilising advanced technologies for site monitoring. Furthermore, a Centre of Excellence will be created within the Ministry, leveraging data analytics and AI to improve decision-making and operational efficiency in mining, significantly transforming resource governance. President Bola Tinubu, represented by Uche Nnaji, praised the reforms, stating they align with Nigeria’s economic growth strategy and the Renewed Hope Agenda, and affirmed government support for responsible mining practices. The focus will be on establishing Nigeria as a pioneering nation in mining technology, ensuring sustainable and efficient mining operations.
Nigeria’s mining sector has faced challenges such as illegal mining and lack of structure. The current administration aims to revitalise this sector through strategic reforms. By establishing a corporate entity for the mining sector, enforcing regulations, and encouraging formalisation of artisanal mining, the government seeks to enhance miner safety and attract investment. The introduction of advanced technologies and a multifaceted monitoring approach aims to reform and modernise mining operations, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a significant player in the global mining industry.
The Nigerian government’s reforms are set to revitalise the mining industry, focusing on enhanced regulations, illegal mining crackdown, and the establishment of a corporate entity to facilitate international partnerships. With technology and data-driven decision-making, Nigeria aims to transform its mineral resources management, making it a global mining hub and ensuring sustainable practices within the sector.
Original Source: www.zawya.com