Nigeria Takes the Lead in African Mining Sector
Nigeria has achieved a monumental milestone in the global mining industry by attaining the presidency of the newly established Africa Minerals Strategy Group. Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, was elected as the inaugural chairman of the group by unanimous consent. This historic event occurred during the 30th edition of Investing in Africa Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa.
In his remarks upon the signing of the resolution, Dr. Alake underscored the significance of African leaders uniting to optimize the benefits derived from the mineral resources of the continent. The gathering was attended by mineral development ministers from various African countries, including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Chad, Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia. Under Nigeria’s leadership, the AMSG has garnered support from over 15 countries, with the anticipation of further expansion in the near future.
Dr. Alake stressed the necessity for African nations to collaborate and prioritize value addition in the mining sector rather than solely exporting solid minerals. He emphasized the essentiality of presenting a unified front with consistent regulations and laws to attract investment in the mining industry across the continent.
Moreover, Nigeria and Uganda had previously taken the initiative to convene African Ministers of Solid Minerals/Mineral Resources during the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The objective was to garner support for championing value addition in the mining sector to bolster the economies of African nations. Dr. Alake reiterated the importance of demonstrating sincerity in purpose to gain serious attention from the global community.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s appointment as the chair of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group signifies a substantial advancement for the African mining sector. The unity and collaboration of African countries under this leadership will play a pivotal role in harnessing the full potential of the continent’s mineral resources.
