The Nigerian Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State, which had been in place for over five years due to security concerns. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced this decision following significant improvements in the local security situation. The previous ban, enacted in 2019, was a response to the rising connection between banditry and illegal mining, leading to a significant security crisis in the state.

Alake disclosed that comprehensive assessments by President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser confirmed the enhanced safety in the region, making a return to mining viable. He highlighted Zamfara’s rich resources like gold, lithium, and copper as essential for Nigeria’s economic development. The initial ban aimed to address severe security threats but inadvertently created space for illegal mining activities.

The minister praised the Tinubu government for its effective security strategies, which have notably reduced insecurity, including the successful capture of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu. With the ban’s removal, the government intends to better regulate mining operations, combat illegal operations, and ensure that Nigeria derives full benefit from its mineral wealth.

Alake also acknowledged the critical role the media plays in advancing mining sector reforms and attracting investments. Additionally, he clarified that a recent Memorandum of Understanding with France focuses on training and capacity building for mining professionals, not on ceding control over Nigeria’s resources. He called on the media to continue dispelling misinformation surrounding this initiative.

Future plans for 2025 include further policy initiatives to boost the mining industry, enhance investments, and ensure sustainable growth of the sector, aiming for revitalisation and increased contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara is significant as the state has faced severe security issues linked to illegal mining operations. This ban was initially implemented due to escalating violence and criminality in the region. With improved security, the government aims to enhance the mining sector’s potential to contribute economically while regulating operations to prevent illegal mining and resource depletion.

The Nigerian Government’s decision to end the mining exploration ban in Zamfara reflects improved security. This move aims to regulate mining more effectively while revitalising the local economy through its rich mineral resources. The government, backed by security improvements and media support, is focused on sustainable growth in the mining sector for the future.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com

The post Nigerian Government Resumes Mining Exploration in Zamfara After Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has voiced his discontent over the drastic cut of his ministry’s proposed budget from N531 billion to N9 billion. He characterised this reduction as unacceptable while seeking an increase, though he did not specify the desired amount. Alake has formally protested to the National Assembly, asserting that the current allocation is insufficient to unlock Nigeria’s mining potential and that such limitations would stifle potential investments vital for exploration and growth in the sector. Furthermore, he highlighted that the 2024 revenue projections exceeded expectations, generating N38 billion, thus demonstrating the capacity for growth in the mining sector despite the minimal budgetary support.

The significant reduction of Nigeria’s mining sector budget poses a serious challenge to its economic diversification efforts, as it heavily relies on oil revenue. The proposed cut could undermine ongoing reforms and achievements within the mining industry. Recent figures indicated that reforms helped create 45,000 jobs and exceeded revenue expectations. The government, represented by the Minister and the Joint National Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals, expresses concerns about the implications of such a minimal budget and its impact on future investments and sustainable economic growth.

The drastic cut in the mining sector budget has spurred considerable backlash from the Minister and legislative committees, who argue that it threatens the future potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals industry. With calls for a budget increase, the focus remains on ensuring significant investments for exploration to sustain economic diversification beyond oil reliance. Concerns about job creation and revenue generation continue to be pivotal in discussions surrounding the budget allocation for the mining sector.

Original Source: 21stcenturychronicle.com

The post Minister Decries Cutting Nigeria’s Mining Sector Budget to N9 Billion first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has expressed strong discontent regarding the drastic reduction of his ministry’s proposed capital budget for 2025 from N531 billion to a mere N9 billion. He articulated his concerns on social media, highlighting that such cuts would severely limit investments necessary for unlocking Nigeria’s mining potential. The minister reported that while mining reforms generated 45,000 new jobs in 2024 and revenue surpassed projections, the current allocation is woefully inadequate for critical exploration activities.

Alake, alongside the Joint National Assembly Committee, emphasised that the N9 billion budget fails to meet the essential financial requirements for fostering significant investment in the mining sector, crucial for Nigeria’s economic diversification. Both Committee Chairman Senator Ekong Sampson and Co-Chairman Gaza Gbefwi joined in condemning the budget reduction as a blow to the country’s capacity to generate revenue. Gbefwi warned against compromising future generations by neglecting such promising sectors as solid minerals.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suggested halting budget screenings until a proper increase is made. Consequently, the Joint Committee rejected the proposed budget and invited relevant ministers to push for a review that would unlock Nigeria’s mineral resource potential further.

This reflects a broader push for better budgetary support that aligns with the nation’s need for economic diversity beyond oil, framing solid minerals as a cornerstone of this transition.

Dr. Dele Alake stated, “This is unacceptable, as it will hinder any significant investment in exploration… We seek the support of the National Assembly for a radical upward review of the budget.” – 21st Century Chronicle.

The ongoing discussions signal an urgent need for investment in Nigeria’s mining sector to facilitate long-term economic gains and employment opportunities, as well as to increase national revenues.

– Key Points:
1. The proposed capital budget for the mining sector for 2025 is dramatically reduced.
2. Minister Dele Alake and the Joint Committee call for an upward review of the budget.
3. There is a push for increased investment in Nigeria’s mining to drive economic diversification.
4. Critics of the budget cuts see them as detrimental to future generations and growth in the sector.

– Conclusion:
Minister Alake’s dissatisfaction with the N9 billion budget underscores critical gaps in funding necessary for the advancement of Nigeria’s mining infrastructure and workforce development. The rejection by the Joint Committee encapsulates the urgent call for reassessment of priorities to safeguard the future economic health and potential of the nation through solid minerals.

This article discusses the ongoing issues within Nigeria’s mining sector, particularly focusing on a significant budget reduction proposed for 2025. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has vocalised concerns regarding this cut, seeing it as a hindrance to the potential growth and exploration needed in the industry. The background discusses Nigeria’s reliance on oil, the recent jobs created through mining, and the importance of solid minerals in economic diversification.

The situation highlights the urgent need for increased support and investment in Nigeria’s mining sector. Minister Alake’s statements, alongside the condemnation from the Joint Committee, reflect a clear consensus on the necessity for a budget review to secure the future economic sustainability of the country based on its mineral resources.

Original Source: 21stcenturychronicle.com

The post Minister Rejects Dramatic Cuts to Nigeria’s Mining Budget first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has expressed strong disapproval of the N9 billion budget allocated for Nigeria’s mining sector in 2025, calling for a significant increase. In a post on X, Alake argued that this financial allocation is insufficient to harness the country’s mining potential, despite the sector generating N38 billion in revenue in 2024, exceeding an initial projection of N11 billion. He emphasised that to secure substantial investments in exploration activities, an upward review of the budget is essential.

Alake pointed out the success of mining reforms in 2024, which resulted in 45,000 new jobs and enabled Nigeria to attract global attention in the sector. He asserted that the N9 billion budget would severely limit exploration efforts and hinder necessary geo-data generation to engage major investors. Furthermore, the Joint National Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals has also rejected the proposed budget, advocating for increased funding to promote solid minerals as a critical component of economic diversification. Committee Chair Senator Ekong Sampson highlighted the crucial need for investment in exploration to facilitate Nigeria’s green energy transition.

Nigeria is Africa’s leading energy producer but struggles to leverage its mineral resources effectively, contributing less than 1% to its GDP. Persistent challenges include inadequate incentives, rampant illegal activities, and low investment levels. The country aims to diversify its economy and harness the potential of its solid minerals sector, which is viewed as key for future economic stability and growth. Recent reforms demonstrated the possibility of job creation and revenue generation, but the budgetary allocation needs considerable enhancement to facilitate further progress.

In summary, Dr. Dele Alake’s call for an increased budget for Nigeria’s mining sector underscores the necessity of substantial investment for exploration and growth. With the Joint National Assembly Committee echoing his concerns, there is a growing consensus on the urgent need for policy adjustments to ensure Nigeria capitalises on its mineral wealth and drives economic diversification away from oil dependency. Without adequate funding, opportunities for future generations may be severely compromised.

Original Source: nairametrics.com

The post Dele Alake Critiques N9 Billion Mining Budget, Advocates for Increase first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government is launching a new television drama series called “Hidden Riches” on January 25, aimed at enhancing awareness about the mining sector. Announced by Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the show seeks to underline the industry’s significance in Nigeria’s economic diversification. Produced by Take 7 Media and set to air weekly on Saturdays at 8:05 pm on NTA, the series will feature notable actors and explore themes of politics, ambition, and the country’s mineral resources. Dr. Alake stated that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising the potential of solid minerals in fostering sustainable economic growth.

The unveiling of “Hidden Riches” is a strategic move by the Nigerian government to encourage investment and engagement in the mining sector, which holds significant promise for economic diversification. As part of broader economic reforms, this television series aims to educate the public about the opportunities within solid minerals, showcasing its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues. The series intends to leverage popular media to impact public perception and policy.

The introduction of “Hidden Riches” represents a proactive approach by the Nigerian government to elevate the profile of the mining sector. By combining entertainment with educational elements, the series seeks to inform viewers about the opportunities within this vital industry. Hopefully, it will foster greater awareness and interest in Nigeria’s solid minerals, contributing to the country’s overall economic progress.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigerian Government Premieres TV Series to Boost Mining Sector Awareness first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian federal government will launch a television drama series entitled ‘Hidden Riches’ on January 25, 2025. Announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, the series aims to explore the intricate dynamics of Nigeria’s mining industry. It will focus on the potential economic transformation via mineral resources, addressing the interactions between miners, politicians, activists, and citizens. Directed by Bem Pever and Nwamaka Chikezie, the show will air weekly on NTA every Saturday from 8:05 pm to 8:30 pm. The narrative aims to inspire viewers to engage in building a more sustainable future through an understanding of their country’s mineral wealth.

This television series emerges as part of Nigeria’s broader initiative to diversify its economy beyond oil reliance. Mining presents significant potential for growth and development, which the government aims to capitalise on through storytelling that reveals the underlying complexities of the sector. By focusing on the relationships and conflicts within the mining community, the series intends to foster a deeper societal engagement with this critical industry.

‘Hidden Riches’ is positioned as a significant cultural project that blends entertainment with educational insights into Nigeria’s mining sector. Its weekly broadcasts aim to shine a light on both the challenges and opportunities present in mining, reflecting the government’s commitment to economic diversification and sustainable growth. By leveraging popular media, the initiative seeks to encourage public involvement in the sector’s development.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

The post Nigerian Government to Launch ‘Hidden Riches’ TV Series on Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has announced the launch of a new TV drama series titled ‘Hidden Riches’. This series aims to explore the intricacies and potential of Nigeria’s mining industry, showcasing the lives of miners, politicians, activists, and everyday Nigerians as they confront various challenges. The narrative intends to shed light on how solid minerals can drive sustainable economic growth in Nigeria. Featuring prominent actors like Sydney Diala and Lara Owoeye-Wise, it will air weekly from January 25, 2025, on NTA, at 8.05pm.

The initiative of the ‘Hidden Riches’ drama series stems from the Nigerian government’s push to highlight the importance of the mining sector in economic development. The drama aims to engage the public and create awareness regarding the vast mineral resources in Nigeria. As the country looks to diversify its economy, solid minerals are seen as pivotal in achieving sustainable growth and resource management.

The debut of ‘Hidden Riches’ represents a significant step in showcasing Nigeria’s mining potential and its role in economic transformation. By intertwining the stories of diverse characters, the series aims to raise awareness about mining opportunities and encourage public participation in resource management.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nigeria’s ‘Hidden Riches’ Drama Series Set to Highlight Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

A new TV drama series titled “Hidden Riches” will premiere on January 25, focusing on the complexities and potential of Nigeria’s mining industry. Initiated by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the series features a talented cast, including Sydney Diala and Lara Owoeye-Wise. It aims to depict the interplay of politics, power, and ambition entwined with the country’s rich mineral resources, showcasing the challenges and opportunities faced by miners, activists, and everyday citizens. The series is expected to raise awareness about the opportunities within the solid minerals sector and encourage participation in sustainable economic growth.

The launch of “Hidden Riches” is part of the Nigerian government’s strategy to leverage its vast mineral wealth for economic development. By highlighting the intricacies of the mining sector, the series seeks to inform viewers of its potential to contribute to Nigeria’s economy sustainably. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to diversify the economy under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising solid minerals as a critical pathway for transformation and resource management.

“Hidden Riches” represents a significant cultural and educational initiative, aiming to inform not only about Nigeria’s mining issues but also about the economic benefits that can arise from responsible mining. By engaging a broad audience through storytelling, the series aspires to inspire participation in the industry and highlight its role in national development.

Original Source: leadership.ng

The post Nigeria’s Mining Sector Explored in New TV Series “Hidden Riches” first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian federal government is launching a drama series focused on the mining sector, titled ‘Hidden Riches’, set to premiere on January 25, 2025. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, described the series as an exploration of the complexities surrounding Nigeria’s mining industry, including its potential for economic transformation. Directed by Bem Pever and Nwamaka Chikezie, the show will air weekly on Saturdays at 8:05 pm on NTA’s Network Service.

The narrative follows the lives of miners, politicians, activists, and everyday Nigerians facing various challenges in tapping into the country’s mineral wealth. Alake emphasised that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s strategy to diversify Nigeria’s economy and will foster public engagement towards a sustainable future. The series will feature actors such as Sydney Diala and Lara Owoeye-Wise.

Nigeria’s mining sector is seen as a vital area for economic growth and development, yet it remains untouched due to many complexities including political dynamics and resource management. The government’s initiative to produce a television series aims to raise awareness of these issues while highlighting the industry’s potential. Such projects may reflect broader economic goals, particularly in diversifying Nigeria’s economic base, reducing reliance on oil, and promoting resource management against the backdrop of ongoing challenges in the sector.

The premiere of ‘Hidden Riches’ serves as a strategic move by the Nigerian government to shine a light on the mining sector’s potential while encouraging civic engagement. By showcasing the intricate relationships and dynamics within the industry, the series aims to stimulate interest and discussion around the sustainable development of Nigeria’s mineral resources, fitting into the larger agenda of economic diversification under President Tinubu.

Original Source: lifestyle.thecable.ng

The post Nigerian Government to Launch ‘Hidden Riches’ Mining Drama Series first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Federal Government of Nigeria will debut a new television drama series titled “Hidden Riches” on January 25, 2025, focusing on the intricacies and potential of the nation’s mining industry. Set to broadcast weekly on the Network Service of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Saturdays from 8:05 pm to 8:30 pm, the series aims to raise awareness about this crucial sector. Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasized its role in economic transformation, showcasing the narratives of various stakeholders in the mining sector.

This new series, produced by Take 7 Media, aims to illuminate the often-overlooked mining sector in Nigeria, which holds substantial opportunities for economic development. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises diversifying the economy and sustainably managing resources. Highlighting real-life challenges and opportunities faced by miners, politicians, and activists, the series seeks to engage audiences in the importance of solid minerals in Nigeria’s economic landscape.

In summary, “Hidden Riches” represents a strategic effort by the Nigerian government to shed light on the mining industry’s potential for economic growth while engaging the public with compelling storytelling. The series will serve as both entertainment and an educational tool, encouraging broader discourse on sustainable practices within Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

The post Nigeria to Launch Mining-Themed TV Series “Hidden Riches” on Jan 25, 2025 first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.