Revolutionizing the Mining Sector: A Closer Look at the Surge in Mineral Title Applications
The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) has reported a significant increase in applications for mineral titles following the implementation of the electronic mining cadastre systems (eMC+) in 2022. As of February 2024, a total of 10,805 applications for new mineral titles and modifications have been received, marking a milestone in the sector.
During the 59th annual international conference and exhibition of the Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) in Jos, Obadiah Nkom, the director-general of MCO, disclosed this noteworthy statistic. The applications were submitted over a two-year period, with a notable 39.85 percent being unassisted online transactions, illustrating the growing preference for digital processes.
The primary responsibility of the MCO is the administration and management of mineral titles, as well as the maintenance of cadastre registrar in accordance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007. According to Nkom, the implementation of the eMC+ system was a strategic move aimed at streamlining processes, enhancing transparency, and improving overall service delivery in alignment with global best practices.
The benefits of the eMC+ system are varied, ranging from simplifying transaction processing steps to ensuring compliance with mining regulations. Nkom highlighted the importance of transparency in mineral title administration, citing the system’s capacity to create and maintain chronological records of activities as a pivotal feature.
Despite the predominantly artisanal and small-scale nature of mining activities in Nigeria, the MCO has established a dedicated department for coordinating their operations. This initiative extends to organizing miners into cooperatives and providing essential extension services to support their endeavors.
In response to recent mining-related accidents in the state, Nkom emphasized the critical role of effective communication and education in preventing such incidents. He also underscored the need for legal mining sites to promptly report any occurrences to avert future tragedies, thereby emphasizing the importance of cooperation between stakeholders in fostering a safe and sustainable mining sector.
The evolving landscape of the Nigerian mining sector is indicative of the strides being made in boosting operational efficiency and embracing technological advancements. The surge in mineral title applications serves as a testament to the growing interest and investment in the industry, with the eMC+ system playing a pivotal role in driving this positive trajectory. As the sector continues to evolve, the collaboration and proactive engagement of all stakeholders will be instrumental in ensuring its long-term success.
