Catalysing Nigeria’s Mining and Geosciences: An Overview of IAMESEP’s Impact
In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Nigeria’s economic diversification, certain individuals and organizations serve as beacons of progress, driving change within their respective domains. The Initiative for Advancement in Mining, Earth Science, and Environmental Protection (IAMESEP) stands prominently among these trailblazers. Founded in 2019 by the esteemed Dr. Salau Lami Sidikat, IAMESEP embodies a fusion of expertise and advocacy.
Comprised of geoscientists and mining engineers united by a shared vision, IAMESEP is a non-profit organization committed to raising awareness about the considerable profitability inherent in mining, which has the potential to catalyse Nigeria’s economic growth. Simultaneously, the organization champions environmental protection, cognizant of the profound impact that mining activities exert on our ecology. Central to their mission is the dissemination of knowledge, targeting students, entrepreneurs, and the wider public, elucidating Nigeria’s geological wealth and mineral resources through practical education initiatives. This commitment is encapsulated in their mantra, “MINING MATTERS.”
IAMESEP’s vision is supported by a cadre of esteemed professionals serving on the Advisory Board, including Professor Ibrahim Garba (Former Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University), Professor Gbenga Okunola (President Geological Society of Africa), Mr. Kunle Arisekola (Senior Adviser, AMDC), among others. Their mission, eloquently elaborated on their website (https://www.iamesep.com/), encompasses fostering proper management and governance of Nigeria’s geology and mineral resources, while upholding global best practices. The ‘Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act. 2007’ and ‘Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011’ constitute the key policies of IAMESEP.
The association’s objectives include:
– Creating awareness on Nigerian solid mineral resources
– Encouraging the use of best practices in the extractive industry
– Bridging the gap between professionals, academics, and industries.
Operating in collaboration with key stakeholders including the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency and prominent industry players like Kian Smith Trade and Co and Eta Zuma Group West Africa, IAMESEP’s multifaceted approach is a testament to their unwavering commitment.
Through a spectrum of initiatives, including outreach programs, youth clubs, and artisanal miners’ formalization, IAMESEP addresses critical gaps in the mineral value chain. Their activities, ranging from monthly webinars to hands-on field mapping and training, are meticulously designed to create awareness and instil best practices in the extractive industry. The organization’s adaptability is evident in its evolving focus—from mineral resource mapping to exploration and environmental protection.
Notably, IAMESEP’s impact transcends digital platforms, with educational workshops and university collaborations providing practical insights to students. Their newest venture, the IAMESEP Mineral Advocacy Group (IMAG), underscores their commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices, inviting participation from diverse stakeholders. The group consistently acknowledges and honours its valuable contributors, presenting certificates of recognition and awards to deserving members.
Rome may not have been built in a day; however, it is emblematic of the notion that long-term milestones are achieved through incremental steps. Dr Amuda Kayode’s presentation on “Entrepreneurial Opportunities in the Mineral and Mining Sectors in Nigeria” during one of IAMESEP’s monthly webinars in January 2022 marked the commencement of a concerted effort. This was followed by a series of hands-on workshops and on-site training sessions by the NGO, which culminated in receiving a prestigious Presidential Award from the Nigeria Mining and Geoscience Society (NMGS), the foremost professional body in Geology and Mining. This recognition underscores IAMESEP’s unwavering commitment to spearheading initiatives in earth science and mining, involving innovative approaches to harness geological resources sustainably in Nigeria. They received the “Entrepreneurship Award” at the 59th NMGS’s annual International Conference in March 2024.
As Nigeria charts its course towards economic resilience and sustainability, organizations like IAMESEP catalyze change. Their vision, expertise, and unwavering commitment pave the way for a brighter future, where Nigeria’s geological riches are harnessed responsibly for the benefit of all. Join the movement today and be a part of Nigeria’s mining revolution. For more information and to access a detailed archive of their programs, visit the IAMESEP website (https://www.iamesep.com/).
N. C. Gideon, the IEMESEP-IMAG Group’s Coordinator writes from the FCT Abuja.
