National Geo-data Centre: A Game Changer for Nigeria’s Mining Sector
The National Geodata Centre (NGC) at the Nigerian Geological Survey (NGSA) headquarters in Abuja was recently inaugurated by the federal government. This pivotal project, funded through the World Bank-assisted MINDIVER Project, signifies a notable advancement in Nigeria’s mining subsector.
Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Arc. Olamilekan Adegbite, conveyed his enthusiasm for achieving this milestone during the commissioning ceremony. He underscored the positive impact that the geodata centre will have on Nigeria’s standing as a mining nation, particularly in attracting both local and international investors into the sector.
Minister Adegbite underscored that the availability of online mining data will streamline the process for potential investors, eliminating the necessity for physical visits to the ministry. He highlighted the critical role of a geo-data centre as a national geoscience knowledge base for identifying a country’s mineral potential, noting the successes of leading mining countries like Australia, Canada, and Namibia in Africa, where accessible geodata has attracted significant investments.
Recognizing the crucial role played by the World Bank and the MINDIVER project, the minister emphasized the significance of reliable data in minimizing risks and maximizing profits for mining companies. He also highlighted the continuous support from the World Bank in providing data to attract essential investments into the mining sector.
The NGSA will host the modern digital infrastructure of the geodata centre, focusing on data relevant to the mineral sector. This infrastructure aims to enhance accessibility for investors, both locally and internationally, with a commitment to consistently updating and uploading relevant information.
The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development values the pivotal role of the Nigerian Geo-data Centre as a national repository of digital geoscience information. Dr. Oluwatoyin Akinlade, the ministry’s permanent secretary, emphasized the comprehensive and easily accessible nature of the Centre, highlighting its significance as a one-stop shop for geo-scientific data and information. The British Geological Survey (BGS), UK, was contracted to establish this high-level infrastructure, ensuring its security, resilience, and accessibility to various stakeholders.
Abdulrazak Garba, the director general of NGSA, expressed gratitude to the minister, the MINDIVER team, and technical partners for their unwavering support in realizing the project. He emphasized the positive impact that the centre will have in boosting the mining sector and positioning Nigeria as an attractive investment destination.
In conclusion, the establishment of the National Geo-data Centre represents a significant leap forward for Nigeria’s mining sector. By providing a reliable and accessible platform for mining data, the country is poised to attract increased investments and foster sustainable growth in the industry. The ongoing support from the World Bank and the collaboration between local and international stakeholders ensure a promising future for Nigeria’s mining landscape.
