The Nigerian Federal Government has arrested 300 illegal miners as part of initiatives to revitalize the mining sector. This announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, during a briefing to the House Committee on Solid Minerals. The strategy includes a 7-point agenda aimed at enhancing security and combating illegal mining, crucial for economic growth. Alake highlighted that over 2,000 trained mine marshals contributed significantly to this success by executing arrests, including foreign nationals, thus curbing unauthorized activities. Underlining the importance of collaborative efforts, he noted that support from President Bola Tinubu has been instrumental, enabling swift actions for security in mining areas. Moreover, the focus isn’t solely on security; efforts are underway to position Nigeria as a global mineral hub, attracting international investors eager to form partnerships for mutual growth. The overall objective is to ensure that Nigeria’s mining sector becomes a vital contributor to sustainable economic development.

Illegal mining has long plagued Nigeria’s mining sector, affecting local communities and the country’s international reputation. The government aims to address this through targeted actions, enhancing security measures, and promoting legal mining practices. The appointment of Dele Alake as Minister of Solid Minerals signals a renewed focus on transforming the sector to harness its economic potential. By implementing comprehensive strategies and strengthening collaboration between various ministries, the government aims to create a stable environment for legitimate mining operations and attract foreign investment.

The arrest of 300 illegal miners highlights the Nigerian government’s commitment to transforming the mining sector through enhanced security and strategic partnerships. With a clear 7-point agenda and significant inter-ministerial collaboration, the initiative aims not only to combat illegal activities but also to establish Nigeria as a prominent player on the global mineral stage, fuelling economic growth opportunities.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com

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At the ninth Annual Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, emphasized the need for the country to move beyond mere extraction of minerals to fully harness the sector’s potential. He highlighted that with Nigeria’s wealth of 44 minerals, including critical minerals for energy transitions, the focus must shift to local value addition and processing. Alake asserted that the government aims to transform the country’s mineral wealth into industrial strength that creates jobs and nurtures local businesses. He noted the recent inauguration of lithium processing plants in Nasarawa State and the establishment of more facilities near the Federal Capital Territory as part of this strategy. President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to implementing a policy that ensures mineral resources are processed locally and do not leave Nigeria in their raw form. Alake discussed plans to enhance the security of these resources while tackling illegal mining. The Mining Week serves as a venue for fostering partnerships, promoting innovation, and discussing future challenges and opportunities in mining. The overarching theme centres on building a sustainable mining sector to underpin national growth and prosperity, according to stakeholders present, including representatives from the Miners Association of Nigeria and PwC.

Nigeria’s mining sector is rich in potential, with 44 identified minerals. However, the country has primarily focused on extraction rather than processing and added value, which is crucial for economic growth. The Nigerian government is taking steps to reposition this sector to enhance its contribution to the GDP and create jobs, especially in light of global shifts towards sustainable energy solutions. The government’s new initiatives highlight a commitment to local processing and securing mineral resources.

Dr. Dele Alake’s statements at the Annual Nigeria Mining Week underline a pivotal shift in Nigeria’s mining strategy from simply extracting minerals to implementing local value addition and processing. By reinforcing security measures and promoting partnerships with various stakeholders, the government aims to enhance the mining sector’s contribution to the economy, ensuring that the benefits are realised domestically.

Original Source: nannews.ng

The post Nigeria Enhances Mining Strategy: From Extraction to Value Addition first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.