The 9th Nigeria Mining Week will address environmental issues linked to the sector, with Minister Dr. Dele Alake committing to remediation and environmental compliance initiatives. The ministry aims to enhance transparency, educate the public, and promote local processing of mineral resources to boost economic growth. The event, scheduled for November 18-20, 2024, will focus on various strategic topics related to the mining industry.
As the 9th Nigeria Mining Week approaches, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has pledged to address environmental issues linked to mining operations. He mentioned that the ministry is advancing robust policies aimed at curtailing environmental degradation while maximising Nigeria’s mining potential for economic growth. Dr. Alake highlighted the legacy of over 1,000 abandoned mining pits and emphasised ongoing remediation efforts to mitigate the environmental risks they pose to local communities. In a press briefing, the minister elaborated on the ministry’s strategies, which include a department focused on environmental compliance for mining operators. All applicants for mining permits must now submit plans for site remediation before receiving licences. This measure aims to prevent unaccountable abandonment of mining sites. Dr. Alake also stressed the ministry’s commitment to public awareness initiatives regarding the dangers of unregulated mining, asserting that illegal operations significantly harm the environment, unlike regulated operators. The government is also prioritising data transparency within the mining sector, aiming to attract investments by ensuring the availability of high-quality geoscientific data. Dr. Alake expressed the intention to enhance Nigeria’s appeal as an investment destination aligned with international standards, while also pushing a value-addition strategy that promotes local processing of resources. This approach aims to generate jobs and bolster the economy across sectors. Dr. Mary A. Ogbe, Permanent Secretary, noted the media’s vital role in shaping public perception of Nigeria’s mining potential. Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association, remarked on the significance of informing both local and international audiences about the opportunities presented during the mining week. Additionally, Habeeb Jaiyeola from PricewaterhouseCoopers outlined that the event will cover various pivotal topics, underlining the strategic value of critical minerals and the need for sustainable development. The three-day event is scheduled from November 18 to 20, 2024.
The Nigeria Mining Week is an annual event designed to showcase the mining industry’s potential and foster investment in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. Environmental management is a pressing concern due to historical mining practices that left numerous abandoned pits posing risks to local ecosystems and communities. The current administration aims to rectify these past oversights while promoting sustainable mining practices that align with global standards. By integrating environmental stewardship into the mining strategy, Nigeria seeks to attract both domestic and foreign investments, ultimately enhancing the country’s economic resilience and growth.
Dr. Dele Alake’s commitment to addressing environmental hazards in Nigeria’s mining sector highlights the government’s proactive approach towards sustainable practices. With a focus on remediation, regulatory compliance, and public awareness, the ministry aims to transform challenges into opportunities for economic advancement. The upcoming Nigeria Mining Week serves as a platform to reinforce these objectives, showcasing Nigeria’s mineral-rich landscape and its potential for sustainable development.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com