Nigeria’s Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, recently underscored the potential of sustainable mining to generate substantial revenue for the government, as well as the significance of harmonizing development with environmental stewardship. Speaking at the 3rd edition of the Africa Natural Resource and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja, Mr Salako emphasised the necessity of directing revenue from mining activities towards infrastructure development, social programs, and other governmental priorities.
He highlighted that the mining sector holds the potential to create opportunities for employment, stimulate other industries, and contribute to overall economic growth. Nevertheless, he also acknowledged the potential adverse impacts of mining activities on the environment and public health if not well regulated and managed sustainably. These effects encompass pollution, erosion, loss of biodiversity, and contribution to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions.
The minister underscored the importance of establishing an appropriate legal and normative framework for mining activities, including domestic laws, international standards, and enforcement mechanisms, to promote sustainable development. Without such regulations, the economic benefits of mining could be outweighed by the long-term environmental and social costs.
Maryam Yaro, Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Government, also stressed the importance of sustainable practices in natural resource management and energy production. She emphasized the need to strike a balance between economic progress and ecological preservation, recognizing the immense opportunities for growth and development in Nigeria’s mineral-rich soil and powerful rivers.
The summit itself emphasized the significance of collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for the African people. It serves as a platform for stakeholders to come together and discuss how to harness the continent’s resources responsibly and sustainably, ensuring that they benefit all Africans.
The discussions at the AFNIS shed light on the challenges and opportunities presented by the mining sector in Africa. They also underscore the critical role of sustainable practices in ensuring that economic development does not come at the expense of the environment and future generations. This aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable development and reduce the negative impacts of economic activities on the planet.
In conclusion, sustainable mining has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and development. However, achieving this potential requires a careful balance between reaping the economic benefits of mining and mitigating its environmental and social impacts. With the right regulations, enforcement mechanisms, and a commitment to sustainability, the mining sector can play a crucial role in Nigeria’s future prosperity.