Attracting Foreign Investment Through Harnessing Mining Resources: The Urgent Call of Engr. Obadiah Nkom
The Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) in Nigeria, led by Director-General Engr. Obadiah Nkom, is advocating for the incorporation of mining as a strategic avenue to entice foreign investors. At the Nigeria Mining Week organized by various industry associations, Nkom urged both private and public companies to capitalize on the wealth of opportunities presented by mining in Nigeria. The primary theme of the event, “Capitalising on Nigeria’s Critical Mineral Resources for Its Economic Growth,” emphasizes the significance of leveraging the country’s mineral wealth to propel economic development.
As the regulatory body responsible for administering and managing mineral titles in the cadastral register, the MCO is focused on establishing a transparent and efficient mining cadastre system that aligns with international best practices. Upholding principles such as priority, objectivity, and transparency, the MCO is dedicated to delivering its services reliably, effectively, and professionally, in accordance with the provisions of the enabling law.
Engr. Nkom underscored the MCO’s initiatives to modernize the administration of mineral titles in Nigeria through the introduction of the electronic mining cadastre system (eMC). This online platform streamlines the application processing and management of mineral titles, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and service delivery while reducing operational costs. The implementation of the eMC is anticipated to enhance the ease of conducting business in Nigeria’s mining sector and provide decision-makers with valuable information services.
Highlighting the global nature of mining as a business, Nkom emphasized the necessity for a competitive investment climate characterized by clear land allocation policies and guidelines. The MCO’s initiatives also encompass software upgrades, development of geo-data reports, enhancement of staff performance, and the establishment of mining cadastre offices in various regions to decentralize operations. Additionally, the MCO aims to create opportunities for students through an educational internship program, in alignment with government policies that promote industry-institution partnerships.
Prof. Akinade Olatunji, representing Rapidlink Group of Companies Limited Nigeria, a notable voice in the industry, echoed the significance of educational internships as a means to bridge the gap between academia and the industry. This approach not only offers students valuable exposure but also aligns with the broader goal of fostering collaboration between educational institutions and the mining sector.
The effort to harness Nigeria’s mining resources for economic growth aligns with global trends where nations are vying to attract responsible mining investments. By embracing modernization, transparency, and nurturing industry-academia alliances, the MCO seeks to position Nigeria as an appealing destination for foreign investors looking to tap into the country’s abundant mineral resources. With the strong leadership of Engr. Obadiah Nkom at the helm, the MCO is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s mining sector.
