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

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Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has announced plans to commence the establishment of lithium and rare earth processing plants across the country, aiming to leverage its mineral wealth and diversify the economy away from oil dependency. Minister Dele Alake revealed these developments during a briefing for the upcoming Nigeria Mining Week, highlighting a partnership with El Thahadat and Hasetins to set up plants in Kwara, Kebbi, and the Federal Capital Territory. This initiative coincides with the opening of a new gold refinery in Gwarinpa. Alake noted that Nigeria possesses over 44 types of minerals and underscores the need for value addition through processing to drive economic growth and job creation. He emphasised the importance of accurate data to attract investment and the goal of positioning Nigeria as a reliable investment destination. Furthermore, local processing facilities aim to enhance job creation and economic benefits to communities. In combating illegal mining, the government is employing robust surveillance measures and collaborating with various agencies to protect resource revenues and community welfare. Plans are also in place to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining, providing better safety and technology access for participants while leading to the establishment of new co-operatives. Overall, these efforts are designed to stimulate economic empowerment at the grassroots level and enhance national development.

The article discusses Nigeria’s initiative to create lithium and rare earth processing plants, marking a strategic move to bolster the country’s economy by reducing reliance on oil revenue. Given the increasing global demand for lithium, particularly in manufacturing rechargeable batteries, Nigeria seeks to leverage its rich mineral deposits to attract investment and improve local economies. The emphasis on combating illegal mining through stricter regulations and formalising small-scale operations reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable mineral development while ensuring that local communities benefit from these resources.

Nigeria is taking significant strides to advance its mining sector by establishing lithium and rare earth processing plants, with a focus on local value addition and economic diversification. The government’s efforts to formalise artisanal mining and tackle illegal activities exemplify a comprehensive approach to fostering sustainable development and community empowerment in the mining industry. Through these initiatives, Nigeria aims to cement its position as a key player in the global mineral market and enhance the prosperity of its citizens.

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Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasized the government’s commitment to halting the export of mineral resources during a press conference for the ninth edition of Nigeria Mining Week. The aim is to implement a value-addition policy that ensures minerals are processed locally to boost the economy. Nigeria, rich in 44 minerals, is focusing on local beneficiation to create jobs and enhance industrial growth. The government will tackle issues like illegal mining to secure mineral resources, reinforcing that the solid minerals sector should contribute significantly to the national GDP. Stakeholders view the mining week as an opportunity to enhance the industry and showcase technological advancements.

The Nigerian government seeks to develop its solid minerals sector to strengthen the economy, reduce dependency on external mineral imports, and create local job opportunities. This initiative aligns with global trends towards energy transition and sustainable mining practices. By prioritising local processing and value addition, Nigeria hopes to establish itself in the global mineral market and ensure local communities benefit from their resources.

In conclusion, the Nigerian government’s strategy under Minister Dele Alake aims to transform the country’s mining sector by prohibiting mineral exports, fostering value addition, and increasing local processing capabilities. This approach is set to benefit the economy and positions Nigeria for a prominent role in the global mineral value chain.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

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The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has announced that reforms carried out under the Tinubu administration have renewed investor interest in Nigeria’s mining sector. Speaking at the Nigeria Middle East Investors Expo and Awards, he highlighted the government’s focus on solid minerals, which has attracted global attention and boosted investments and revenues. Dr. Alake outlined the success of the 7-point agenda in tackling illegal mining, with over 300 illegal operators apprehended and 133 facing prosecution. The minister mentioned plans to enhance monitoring through satellite surveillance of mining sites, thus allowing for efficient oversight and rapid response to illicit activities. He encouraged investors to exploit Nigeria’s vast mineral resources, including substantial deposits of talc, iron ore, lead, and zinc identified across various states. Alake introduced the Decision Support System (DSS), an online platform aimed at assisting potential investors with comprehensive information about Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. Alake reaffirmed Nigeria’s potential as a global mining destination, noting the presence of over 44 critical minerals and stressing the importance of data for attracting foreign investment. He concluded with a commitment to significantly boost exploration funding to generate essential data.

In recent years, Nigeria’s mining sector has been targeted for reform to increase investment and improve regulatory frameworks. The focus has shifted towards solid minerals as the government seeks to combat illegal mining, enhance operations, and attract international investors. The introduction of new technology and comprehensive data systems aims to create a conducive environment for capital influx into the sector, which is crucial for national economic development.

The reforms led by Dr. Dele Alake aim to rejuvenate Nigeria’s mining sector, evidenced by increased investor confidence and substantial progress in illegal mining enforcement. With strategic initiatives like satellite monitoring and the DSS platform, the Nigerian government is poised to make informed investment opportunities available to global players, reaffirming the country’s position as a major player in the mining industry.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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