Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule has called for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector to enhance its potential. Speaking at the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society Annual Conference in Abuja, he advocated for reforms akin to those in the oil and gas industry, emphasising the need for modernization and liberalisation to attract investment.

Governor Sule highlighted Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and criticized existing policies that impede growth. Reflecting on his oil industry experience, he underscored the importance of structured revenue-sharing and industry regulations to secure adequate returns for mining states.

During his term, he discovered that despite 416 mining licenses granted in Nasarawa, the state was receiving no significant financial returns, prompting him to challenge the National Economic Council regarding the lack of revenue compared to the oil sector. Recognising flaws in the licensing process, he issued an executive order to ensure that all minerals processed in the state before export, which boosted local investments.

He proudly noted that Nasarawa State now hosts Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant and several other smaller tin mining operations. Governor Sule urged Nigeria to shift focus towards long-term industrialisation over short-term financial gains, drawing comparisons to China’s approach to mining development.

Sule remains determined to overcome resistance to regulations that would ultimately benefit the sector and the economy. Professor Akinade Olatunji, President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, acknowledged the governor’s contributions to advancing mining reforms in Nigeria, culminating in a fellowship award presented to him during the event.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s call for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector underlines his commitment to modernising the industry. By improving revenue-sharing mechanisms and enforcing operational regulations, he aims to harness the nation’s mining potential for sustainable growth and investment. His proactive measures reflect a determined effort to transform the sector into a vital component of Nigeria’s economy.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

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Abdullahi Sule, the governor of Nasarawa State, has highlighted the need for Nigeria to abandon the community consent form as the sole means for granting mining licences. Speaking at the NMGS conference, he pointed out that this restriction hampers states from obtaining proper revenue from the mining sector, which he believes is Nigeria’s true source of wealth, surpassing oil.

To combat the challenges in obtaining mining licences, the governor introduced an executive order mandating that all companies mining in commercial quantities must process their minerals within the state. Prior to this law, despite 416 mining licences existing, Nasarawa State received no revenue. Following implementation, the state saw the establishment of numerous processing plants, boosting local revenue.

Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasised the government’s commitment to modernising the sector through geospatial data and remote sensing technologies. These initiatives are designed to improve mineral exploration and investment decision-making while minimising uncertainties.

Alake’s representative, Dr. Mary Ogbe, also reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to fostering an environment conducive to innovative growth in mining and related sectors. This includes the creation of mineral processing hubs aimed at enhancing value addition and diminishing dependence on raw mineral exports.

Prof. Akinade Shadrach Olatunji, President of NMGS, stated that integrating agriculture with advanced geoscience and mining solutions would significantly transform Nigeria’s economy. He noted that industrialised nations have long recognised this relationship, supporting well-funded geoscience and mining agencies with top-tier talent.

In summary, Governor Abdullahi Sule advocates for reforming Nigeria’s mining licence system to enhance revenue. He has implemented measures in Nasarawa State to facilitate local mineral processing. The federal government is also focused on leveraging technology and creating hubs for mineral processing to boost value addition, aiming to transform the mining sector into a key economic driver alongside agriculture.

Original Source: dailytrust.com

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The Nigerian federal government has reported that international investors are showing interest in the country’s lithium sector. Segun Tomori, special assistant to Minister Dele Alake, stated during a recent XSpace event that lithium’s significance lies in its use for electric vehicles, solar panels, and green technologies. As a result, many investors are drawn to it, outpacing interest in other minerals like gold, nickel, and cobalt.

Tomori noted that Nigeria has already inaugurated two lithium factories, with additional ones set to open soon, including a new facility in Abuja. He emphasised the growing international mining industry’s focus on lithium, vital for solar panel and electric vehicle production, essential for green energy initiatives. The government aims to create a favourable investment environment by streamlining investment processes and addressing security concerns.

The commitment to fully exploit Nigeria’s lithium potential is evident, especially in Nasarawa state, which is believed to hold significant reserves. Tomori commended the proactive approach of Nasarawa’s governor, Abdullahi Sule, in developing the mining sector. The governor has engaged in collaborations with private entities and has applied to operate as a limited liability company.

Additionally, Tomori revealed that Nasarawa has already commissioned two lithium factories, with more expected this year. However, he acknowledged that Nigeria’s mining sector still requires technical expertise from established mining nations. The minister is actively engaging with foreign parties to seek technical partnerships and capacity-building opportunities.

Despite existing challenges, there is confidence in Nigeria’s ability to leverage its lithium resources for economic growth.

Nigeria’s lithium sector is rapidly gaining international attention, resulting in the establishment of several factories. With strategic government initiatives, particularly in Nasarawa state, and collaborations with foreign countries, Nigeria aims to develop its mining capabilities and technical expertise. The commitment from both the government and local stakeholders is pivotal in capitalising on the country’s lithium potential, despite ongoing challenges.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

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Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, underscored Nasarawa state’s critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru. He highlighted Nasarawa as a mining hub, especially for lithium, and emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration to exploit the state’s mineral wealth effectively.

Nasarawa state is known for its extensive mineral resources, particularly lithium, positioning it as a pivotal area for mining efforts in Nigeria. Recent reforms in the country’s mining sector have sparked increasing interest from global investors. However, challenges such as insecurity remain, prompting the need for enhanced cooperation among state and federal officials to support mining activities while addressing security concerns.

The emphasis on collaboration between governmental bodies is crucial for advancing mining activities in Nasarawa, particularly amidst ongoing security challenges. The commitment by officials to address these issues signifies a robust strategy towards unlocking the state’s minerals potential for national growth. Overall, sustained cooperation is imperative for the mining sector’s success in Nigeria.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

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The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlighted the vital role of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru. Alake noted that Nasarawa, rich in lithium and other minerals, is essential for national development and expressed appreciation for the cooperative relationship with the state government.

Alake indicated that recent reforms have attracted global attention to Nigeria’s mining industry. Governor Sule praised Alake for promoting President Bola Tinubu’s mining agenda but acknowledged ongoing security challenges. Sule emphasised the need for collaboration to address these issues to facilitate uninterrupted mining operations.

Governor Sule reported that lithium production is thriving in the state, with more factories under construction. He stressed the importance of partnering with the private sector to enhance the mining value chain.

Defence Minister Badaru reaffirmed the federal government’s determination to combat insecurity, which has hindered mining activities. He reported progress in tackling banditry and assured that security measures are being intensified nationwide to enable safe mining operations.

Nasarawa State is rich in mineral resources, notably lithium, making it central to Nigeria’s mining ambitions. The government aims to leverage these resources for economic growth, hence the focus on overcoming insecurity to allow for sustainable development. Collaboration between state and federal officials is critical for addressing challenges in the mining sector and ensuring a conducive environment for investment and exploration.

The dialogue among officials underscores the significance of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining landscape, stressing the interplay between resource development and security. Effective collaboration is essential to overcoming obstacles and bolstering the mining sector, ensuring that the state remains a pivotal player in national mineral development.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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