Nigeria’s Ministry of Mines and Steel Development launched the Integrated Automation and Interactive GIS Web Portal, costing N700 million, to improve mining license applications and royalty payments. However, the portal is now inaccessible, raising questions about the management of public digital services. The site experienced a blackout for three days while accessing mining license information in Osun State.

Despite its launch in November 2017 by former Minister Kayode Fayemi, who stated, “We have spent about N700 million to develop this portal to improve Ease-of-Doing-Business in the mining sector,” the portal’s current downtime defies National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) guidelines. These guidelines mandate government websites to be accessible 24/7.

The Ministry has been rebranded under the Tinubu administration, which may indicate system upgrades, yet NITDA guidelines require public notification during such migrations. Given this inaccessibility, users are left with unresolved concerns about transparency and reliability in government digital services, where substantial funds have been invested.

Reports show that many state-owned websites also fail to meet transparency standards. Previous analyses by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council have highlighted these issues. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has not commented on the portal’s downtime, indicating continued gaps in government accountability.

In a separate legal dispute, Omoyele Sowore defended allegations made against Fayemi, asserting the former governor’s lack of reputation and citing past charges of financial impropriety. The lawsuit has drawn attention to broader issues regarding governance in Ekiti State, including mismanagement of projects like the Ado Ekiti cargo airport and the Ekiti Rice Pyramid initiative.

The inaccessibility of Nigeria’s N700 million mining portal highlights failures in government digital service management, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. Despite significant investments in digital infrastructure, the persistent issues reveal a lack of compliance with established guidelines. Furthermore, ongoing legal troubles for former officials add to the scrutiny surrounding governance in the sector.

Original Source: saharareporters.com

The post Nigeria’s N700 Million Mining Portal Faces Accessibility Issues first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Captain Dada Olaniyi Labinjo, Executive Managing Director of SV-NED Mining Company, believes Nigeria could generate over N37 trillion yearly from its mining sector if properly developed. This prospective revenue could significantly boost the economy through job creation and increased tax revenue for the government.

Mining could create thousands of jobs in areas like geology, engineering, and environmental management while providing a substantial income through various taxes. Labinjo emphasised the need for infrastructure improvements to support mining activities, which would benefit local communities.

Ambassador Temitope Amina Labinjo-Ajayi, SV-NED’s chairman, praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that mining could help diversify Nigeria’s economy, which currently relies heavily on oil exports. This diversification would promote economic stability and development.

Labinjo-Ajayi highlighted the potential for mining to boost foreign exchange earnings through mineral exports, positively influencing the country’s currency stability. Additionally, she mentioned that responsible mining can support environmental sustainability and promote local content development by using locally sourced goods and services.

Chief Emmanuel Ayodele Adediran, Seriki of Igbetiland, welcomed SV-NED’s partnership, expecting it to enhance economic development and improve the community’s living standards. He further urged the government to establish a University of Agriculture in the area and to renovate a long-neglected hospital.

Nigeria’s mining sector holds substantial potential for revenue generation, job creation, and economic diversification, with estimates suggesting an annual income of over N37 trillion. The collaboration between SV-NED and local communities aims to enhance development and infrastructure, contributing to the nation’s overall economic growth.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

The post Nigeria Can Generate N37 Trillion Annually from Mining, Says SV-NED Managing Director first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have initiated actions to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last month in Paris aimed at enhancing local mining development. This was discussed during the Future Minerals Forum held in Riyadh between Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s inter-ministerial delegate for strategic minerals. The MOU focuses on sustainable mining, environmental protection, and energy decarbonisation.

Gallezot mentioned that his department is evaluating applications from French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector. A shortlist of eligible investors will be sent to the Nigerian Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Alake acknowledged the cooperation that led to the MOU’s establishment, countering any misinformation from political opposition regarding its objectives.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France aims to boost the mining sector in Nigeria by enhancing sustainable practices and cutting environmental impact. The MOU facilitates research partnerships, student training, and rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites. This partnership arises amidst a global focus on sustainable mining and resource management, which could attract investments and modernize Nigeria’s mining infrastructure.

Both countries are committed to fostering a robust mining sector through their MOU, focusing on sustainability, advanced technology, and investor engagement. Discussions at the forum highlighted essential areas such as artisanal mining and geological exploration, paving the way for improved mining laws and practices. The collaboration is expected to generate significant positive outcomes for Nigeria’s mining landscape.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate to Enhance Mining Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has announced that the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation will overhaul the mining sector, promoting sustainable development. Funded primarily through a 50% private sector equity, along with 25% from Nigerians and 25% from the Federal Government, this initiative aims to ensure the sector’s growth without political interference.

During a meeting with British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter, Alake outlined plans for a competitive mining industry, enhancing access to mining sites via improved transport systems and regulatory frameworks. He also highlighted the intention to remediate abandoned mines, protect investors, and expand exploration to draw significant players into the market.

Emphasising 2025 as a crucial year, Alake welcomed international support for Nigeria’s reform efforts. He noted positive economic indicators stemming from these changes and expressed optimism for future prosperity. Ambassador Baxter appreciated the model based on Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) and assured continued UK support in strengthening Nigeria’s mining regulations and investment climate.

The establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation aims to restructure Nigeria’s mining sector, enhancing its sustainability and competitiveness. The funding model involves significant contributions from private sectors, national stakeholders, and the government, ensuring a balanced and collaborative approach to mining sector reforms. The initiative is set to prevent political interference and enhance investor confidence, setting a precedent for future governmental projects.

The formation of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation is a strategic move towards modernising the mining sector, enabling private sector engagement and fostering sustainable practices. With strong backing from the government and international partners like the UK, the initiative seeks to improve operations, attract investment, and enhance Nigeria’s economic landscape in the coming years.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Corporation Aims to Transform Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has called on British investors to explore Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria. He highlighted the Nigerian government’s openness to UK support in capacity building and technical assistance across the mining value chain.

Alake noted that President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation, designed to transform the sector sustainably, with a structure similar to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) model. The corporation will aim for a 50% equity stake for the private sector, 25% for Nigerians, and 25% for the Federal Government, ensuring its operations remain free from political interference.

The government aims for a competitive mining sector by 2025, enhancing economic growth through improved access to mining sites, regulatory framework upgrades, and environmental remediation. Alake expressed optimism about the administration’s reform efforts, highlighting this pivotal year as a time for positive trends and economic prosperity.

Baxter commended Nigeria’s approach to forming the new corporation and reaffirmed the UK’s support for strengthening Nigeria’s regulatory framework, underlining that Nigeria’s growth is vital for global prosperity and expressing commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in mining.

Nigeria possesses vast mineral resources, which play a vital role in its economic development. The government is seeking foreign investment, particularly from the UK, to enhance the mining sector’s capacity. The establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation is part of broader efforts to ensure sustainable development and attract significant players in the mining industry.

The Nigerian government is actively encouraging British investment in its mining sector, citing opportunities for collaboration in capacity building and technical assistance. The new Nigeria Solid Minerals Corporation is set to enhance investor security and create a competitive market, anticipated to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy by 2025.

Original Source: gazettengr.com

The post FG Invites British Investors to Capitalise on Nigeria’s Mining Opportunities first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Special Mining Marshals are crucial to Nigeria’s national development efforts by combating illegal mining across the nation. Engr. Obadiah Nkom, the Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, commended their bravery in overcoming financial temptations, threats, and immense pressure. He highlighted their integrity, stating they are essential to the agency’s successes against illegal mining, which threatens the economy and environment.

In an initiative to strengthen mining sector operations, Commander John Onoja Attah revealed the Special Mining Marshals’ 2025 Strategic Operational Plans during a meeting with the Mining Cadastre Office. This plan aims to enhance field operations, regulatory compliance, and collaborative efforts against illegal mining. Nkom expressed the agency’s intention to support these plans with improved services through automation.

Nkom reiterated the valiant efforts of the marshals, stating their mission includes ensuring that legitimate mineral titleholders can access their resources without hindrance. Attah confirmed the marshals’ commitment to intensifying actions against illegal mining in 2025, addressing environmental concerns linked to unauthorized activities and framing the collaboration as a pivotal response to community challenges.

Highlighting Nigeria’s rich mineral resources, Nkom underscored the necessity of partnerships in fostering economic growth and attracting investments. He expressed optimism that renewed strategies and determination from the marshals will bolster Nigeria’s status in global minerals and energy innovation. Such efforts reflect the government’s dedication to sustainable mining practices and national economic transformation.

The Special Mining Marshals play a vital role in Nigeria’s efforts to manage and regulate mining activities, particularly in curbing illegal operations that threaten economic stability and environmental integrity. The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, under the leadership of Engr. Obadiah Nkom, aims to support the marshals through strategic operational plans and automation of services, enhancing oversight and transparency in the mining sector.

The collaboration between the Special Mining Marshals and the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office signifies a collective effort to combat illegal mining while promoting legitimate resource access. The strategic operational plans and automation initiatives are set to improve regulatory compliance and service delivery, contributing to the sustainable development and economic transformation of Nigeria’s mining sector.

Original Source: www.peoplesdailyng.com

The post Special Mining Marshals: Key Players in Nigeria’s Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have presented their operational strategies for 2025, prioritising robust field actions, improved compliance with regulations, and intensified efforts against illegal mining. They plan to collaborate closely with the Mining Cadastre Office to enhance their operational effectiveness.

The statement from NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi highlighted commendations from Obadiah Nkom, the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, who praised the marshals’ perseverance in tackling illegal mining, despite numerous challenges. Nkom emphasised their commitment to protecting the nation’s economy from illegal activities.

Illegal mining poses significant risks to Nigeria’s economy and environment. The NSCDC aims to combat this issue through robust strategies and collaborations, ensuring the protection of legitimate mining operations. The 2025 plan underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and community engagement to address the consequences of unregulated mining activities.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals remain dedicated to eradicating illegal mining in Nigeria through a comprehensive approach that includes enhanced collaboration and effective regulatory measures. Their commitment to protecting legitimate miners and promoting environmental sustainability is crucial for national economic growth.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post NSCDC Reveals Strategic 2025 Plan Against Illegal Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

In Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and France reinforced their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding mining, initially established last month in Paris. Key commitments from France include upgrading laboratories, providing advanced technology, and funding geological data exploration for Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency. Kehinde Bamgbetan, Special Adviser to Nigeria’s Minister, announced this during the Future Minerals Forum, where the two nations also agreed to share mining law information to tackle illegal mining.

The meeting in Riyadh focused on collaboration in the mining sector between Nigeria and France. Both countries aim to enhance their mining capabilities through a detailed MoU that addresses technology transfer, training, and sustainable practices. The discussions aimed to foster investment from French companies in Nigeria’s mining sector, driving improvements and compliance with international standards in geological exploration.

The collaborative efforts between Nigeria and France aim to strengthen the mining sector through technological advancements and knowledge sharing. Key actions include upgrading facilities, training local expertise, and facilitating investments. Future meetings will evaluate the MoU’s implementation, ensuring both countries benefit from their partnership historically rooted in geological cooperation.

Original Source: theeagleonline.com.ng

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Cooperation in Saudi Arabia first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia are collaborating to enhance their geological agencies through the advancements achieved by Saudi firms in mineral exploration. This commitment was expressed during a closed-door meeting between officials from both countries at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh. Saudi Minister of Mining, Bandar Al-Khorayef, stated that both the government and private sector are partnering to implement innovative technologies in mineral exploration, spotlighting new products showcased at the event for public engagement and awareness.

The relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia in the mining sector is growing, particularly in the area of technological advancements in mineral exploration. The Future Minerals Forum is a significant platform for these discussions, aimed at improving operational capacities and promoting best practices in mining through cooperative efforts. Saudi Arabia has made strides in mineral exploration, which serves as a model for Nigeria’s geological initiatives.

The collaboration between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia signals a proactive approach to mining development, leveraging technology and strategic partnerships. Both nations are focused on improving their geological capacities, with a clear commitment to adopting new techniques and enhancing awareness of mineral resources.

Original Source: ait.live

The post Nigeria and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties Through Joint Mining Initiatives first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have solidified their partnership following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Paris. In a recent meeting at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, both countries agreed on France upgrading Nigeria’s geological laboratories and providing advanced technology.
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, and France’s Benjamin Gallezot discussed information exchange on mining laws and illegal mining. Gallezot indicated that they are evaluating French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector.
Dr Alake expressed gratitude for the MOU established during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France. The forum was pivotal for advancing collaboration between Nigeria and France in mining through effective programmes and policies.
Professor Olusegun Ige highlighted the need for advanced technology for geological exploration, which has suffered due to equipment shortages. He advocated for the development of local expertise through international training in mining.
Engr Simon Nkom urged a comparative analysis of mining laws in both countries to facilitate improvements. Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi proposed a co-funding model for early-stage exploration projects with French financial institutions.
Christophe Poinssot from France’s geological agency pledged Nigeria’s inclusion in Africa’s geological training funding program, having benefited over 1,000 geologists in the past. He also confirmed plans to improve Nigeria’s geological laboratory facilities to international standards.

The article discusses the strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and France in the mining sector, particularly focusing on technological upgrades and investment opportunities. It outlines the commitments established through a recent MOU aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s mining capabilities and expertise through training and resource sharing. By facilitating advanced technology and fostering cooperation on legal frameworks, both countries aim to bolster their mining industries.

In summary, Nigeria and France have formed a robust partnership to enhance the mining sector through advanced technology, training, and legal exchange. The ongoing collaboration aims to improve geological exploration and attract investments from French companies. Joint efforts are expected to yield significant benefits for both nations, facilitating mutual growth in the mining industry.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Collaboration Through MOU first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.