In a recent Multi-stakeholder Roundtable, stakeholders urged for greater inclusiveness and transparency in Nigeria’s mining sector to combat inequalities. Organised by Global Rights, NEITI, and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the event aimed to address pressing issues in extractive industries, learning from past oil sector mistakes.
**Key Points:**
– NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, emphasised fiscal justice and gender inclusion.
– Women often face barriers in the male-dominated mining sector, affecting their access to employment and resources.
– The need for policy reforms was highlighted, focusing on public data disclosure regarding challenges faced by women and children in mining communities.
– Abiodun Baiyewu of Global Rights noted the impending decline of oil and the need for the extractive sector to better contribute to Nigeria’s economy, currently at less than 1% of GDP.
– Concerns were raised about unregulated artisanal mining practices impacting local communities negatively.
– Mr Habibu Wushishi called on the government to implement global best practices to enhance safety and regulation in mining operations.
The roundtable brought together diverse stakeholders, including community representatives and industry leaders, to collectively strategise on improving the mining landscape in Nigeria.