The House of Representatives in Nigeria has called on the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to enhance lithium production as a means to boost revenue. This decision follows a motion by Rep. Victor Obuzor, highlighting the sector’s underdevelopment despite the country’s rich mineral resources.

Obuzor noted that mining’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP has plummeted from about five percent in the 1950s to less than 0.8 percent today, largely due to the rise of oil and gas. He advocated for increasing focus on lithium, critical for energy-dense batteries essential in renewable energy technologies.

Although Nigeria has undetermined lithium reserves, minerals have been found in states like Nasarawa and Kogi. Given rising global demand, with lithium prices soaring to over $46,000 by 2023, there are concerns about insufficient funding for mining initiatives. The Solid Minerals Development Fund has reportedly failed to invest significantly in lithium exploration.

To address this, the legislature proposed establishing the Nigerian Lithium Production Agency, responsible for creating a comprehensive lithium industry, developing infrastructure, and implementing a regulatory framework that would bolster investments in the entire lithium value chain. The House recommended increasing funding for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency to facilitate proper mineral mapping and surveys.

Lithium is a vital mineral for rechargeable batteries, increasingly important in the shift towards clean energy. Despite Nigeria’s potential in lithium mining, the sector has been neglected over the years in favour of oil. The current move by the House of Representatives highlights a significant shift in policy to leverage natural resources for economic stability.

In summary, the Nigerian House of Representatives is pushing for enhanced lithium production to revive the mining sector, which has seen a sharp decline. With significant global demand for lithium, strategic investments and the establishment of a dedicated agency are seen as crucial steps for Nigeria to harness its mineral wealth effectively.

Original Source: dmarketforces.com

The post Nigerian Reps Advocate for Enhanced Lithium Production Amid Global Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), a subsidiary of Thor Explorations Ltd, engaged stakeholders in the gold mining sector to reinforce its leadership in the industry. On November 19, 2024, SROL held a Stakeholder Reception in Abuja, gathering key players from various organisations, including the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole. The reception followed SROL’s participation as a Diamond Sponsor at Nigeria Mining Week.

During the event, Chris Omo-Osagie, Thor’s Chief Financial Officer, highlighted the company’s achievements, such as being named one of Nigeria’s Top 10 Non-Oil Exporters and receiving the Responsible Resourcing Award for Labour. “These achievements underscore our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and community impact,” he stated. SROL Country Manager Austin Menegbo reiterated the company’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles, noting that responsible mining is central to its operations.

Oduwole commended SROL’s vital role in Nigeria’s economic diversification, highlighting the importance of non-oil exports. SROL also received recognition as a Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council Export Champion for its dedication to national development. During a panel discussion, SROL showcased its community initiatives, including healthcare provision and educational support, reaching nearly 2,000 individuals through their medical outreach this month.

Menegbo concluded by emphasizing SROL’s commitment to responsible mining practices in Nigeria. The company expressed gratitude to its stakeholders and reaffirmed its goal to drive progress in the mining sector.

Segilola Resources Operating Limited aims to establish itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s gold mining industry while promoting responsible mining and community development. By engaging stakeholders and demonstrating its commitment to social initiatives, SROL seeks to balance profitability with community welfare and environmentally sustainable practices. This event reflects broader trends within the industry where collaboration and accountability are increasingly important.

SROL has made significant strides in establishing itself as a leader in responsible gold mining in Nigeria. Through strategic stakeholder engagement, recognition of outstanding achievements, and community support initiatives, the company demonstrates its commitment to sustainable practices and economic diversification in the country. SROL’s proactive approach sets a benchmark for others in the industry to follow, reinforcing the importance of corporate responsibility in mining operations.

Original Source: punchng.com

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The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) has teamed up with the Department of State Security (DSS) to enhance its staff’s skills in cybercrime security. Director General Engr Obadiah Nkom emphasised the urgency of this initiative due to the increasing necessity to secure NMCO’s cyberspace based on its activities and international engagements. He urged staff to follow the prescribed disciplinary training guidelines strictly.

Nkom highlighted the significance of NMCO’s transition to a web-based system via the launch of the electronic Mining Cadastre Plus (eMC+), which facilitates efficient application processing for Mineral Titles. He underscored the growing number of online applications since its launch in November 2022, stressing the need for users to remain vigilant against cyber threats.

The partnership between NMCO and DSS focuses on improving the agency’s cyber security measures, reflecting a broader trend of increasing awareness regarding digital threats in governmental operations. As more services move online, particularly in sensitive areas like mineral rights and titles, the risk of cyberattacks rises, necessitating improved security protocols and staff education.

The NMCO’s collaboration with the DSS marks a crucial step towards enhancing cyber security within governmental operations related to mining. By focusing on staff training in cyber awareness and reinforcing ethical accountability, NMCO aims to safeguard its online systems and support transparency and efficiency in the mineral sector’s operations.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com

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In October 2024, the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) generated an impressive revenue of N8,199,976,300, as reported by the Director General, Engr. Obadiah Nkom, during a Senate oversight visit led by Senator Sampson Ekong. Since its inception, NMCO has amassed N36,048,229,019 in total revenue, with 75% of this amount—N26,230,733,463—generated between 2019 and October 2024. The agency’s revenue has seen a significant increase due to reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and digitising operations. Despite these accomplishments, NMCO faces challenges, including funding shortages, office space constraints, and insufficient power supply, which hinder operational efficiency. Senator Ekong acknowledged the visit’s value, noting a commitment to addressing these challenges to bolster Nigeria’s mining sector.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) plays a crucial role in regulating the country’s mining activities and managing revenues generated from mineral licensing. The trending growth in revenue reflects the agency’s improved operational practices, including digital transformations and transparency initiatives, which have collectively enhanced revenue collection. However, operational obstacles must be addressed to maintain this revenue momentum and ensure the agency’s sustainability and productivity in the mining sector.

The NMCO’s recent revenue achievements underscore the agency’s successful reforms and potential for future growth in Nigeria’s mining sector. Nevertheless, addressing operational challenges such as funding, infrastructure, and personnel shortages remains vital for sustaining and increasing productivity. The commitment from legislative bodies to support NMCO will also be crucial in overcoming these hurdles and enhancing the agency’s contribution to the national economy.

Original Source: nairametrics.com

The post NMCO Reports N8bn Revenue in October 2024 Amidst Operational Challenges first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) has raised concerns over the inadequate capacity of some mining title holders, particularly those holding multiple cadastral units. This issue, highlighted by NMCO Director General Dr Obadiah Nkom during the ninth Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja, is hindering genuine investors’ entry into the mining sector. To rectify this, a new mining regime was introduced in July, focusing on competent operators and adhering to a ‘first come, first served’ principle. Nkom noted improvements, including increased investment and the cancellation of unused licenses, affirming NMCO’s role in promoting responsible mineral resource management and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy.

The challenges faced by mining title holders in Nigeria are crucial for understanding the landscape of the mining sector. The NMCO is responsible for managing mineral rights in the country, aiming to attract investment and ensure sustainable resource management. The introduction of a new mining regime indicates an effort to address the gaps in capacity and effectively allocate titles to operators who can develop them, thereby bolstering the sector’s contribution to economic growth. This situation is particularly relevant as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy.

The NMCO’s initiatives reflect a strategic move towards enhancing the capacity and accountability of mining title holders in Nigeria. By implementing a new regime that prioritises capable operators and the productive use of mining titles, the agency aims to attract genuine investment, ensure compliance, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic ambitions. Ongoing improvements signal a promising future for the mining industry in Nigeria.

Original Source: nannews.ng

The post NMCO Raises Alarm Over Mining Title Holders’ Capacity Issues first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) has issued a total of 7,141 mining licenses; however, only about 1,000 of these are currently active, as revealed by Director General Obadiah Nkom. During a recent meeting with the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Nkom stressed the need for reforms in the sector, specifically in relation to mining fees and title ownership, due to the alarming number of inactive licenses. He noted that despite generating over N8 billion in revenue, the agency suffers from inadequate funding which restricts its operational effectiveness. Nkom further mentioned the successful transition to a web-based platform for improved access and transparency and the development of guidelines for an anti-money laundering unit in partnership with the EFCC. The committee, led by Chairman Jonathan Gaza, raised concerns about the licensing process, the impact of illegal mining, and the need for increased productivity due to insufficient funding. Gaza assured that the committee would escalate these issues to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for necessary action.

The issue of inactive mining licenses in Nigeria highlights significant inefficiencies within the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO). Despite the issuance of over 7,000 licenses, the minimal number of active miners underscores a need for regulatory reform. Inadequate funding and concerns about illegal mining practices also pose challenges for the agency. This situation calls for improved oversight and potential restructuring in the mining sector to enhance productivity and revenue generation.

In summary, the NMCO faces challenges with a high volume of inactive mining licenses against a backdrop of inadequate funding and the prevalence of illegal mining. The agency’s call for reforms and better financing highlights the critical need for a more effective licensing and oversight system to improve the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy. The committee’s commitment to addressing these issues with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development is a positive step towards enhancing operational efficiency.

Original Source: nannews.ng

The post Only 1,000 of 7,141 Mining Licenses Active, Says NIMCO Director General first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) achieved a remarkable revenue of ₦8.2 billion in October 2024, underscoring its pivotal role in the country’s economic diversification strategy. Engr. Obadiah Nkom, the Director General, reported this during a Senate Committee visit, highlighting a significant revenue increase driven by improved regulatory frameworks, transparency, and digitalisation in mining operations. Since its inception, NMCO has generated over ₦36 billion, with 100% remitted to the Federal Treasury. The agency also faces operational challenges, including staffing, power supply issues, and inadequate resources for efficient workflow. The Senate Committee emphasised the need for ongoing reforms to bolster the mining sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Agency is pivotal in streamlining the mining sector by issuing licenses and monitoring revenue collection. Recent years have seen an increasing trend in revenue generation linked to improved systems and enforcement measures. As Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil, the mining sector plays a crucial role, necessitating regulatory enhancements and increased operational efficiency within the NMCO’s framework.

In summary, the NMCO has achieved a record revenue collection, reflecting its strengthened operational capacities and commitment to transparency. However, the agency’s performance is hindered by several operational challenges that need addressing. The Senate Committee’s engagement highlights the ongoing reforms necessary to enhance the effectiveness of the mining sector and ensure its significant contribution to Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Original Source: von.gov.ng

The post Nigerian Mining Cadastre Agency Reports ₦8.2 Billion Revenue in 2024 first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) has reported a significant revenue achievement, reaching N8.19 billion in October 2024, marking a record high for the agency. This achievement reflects Nigeria’s commitment to economic diversification through the solid minerals sector. Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, the MCO’s director-general, highlighted that ongoing initiatives like enhanced transparency and digitalisation of processes contributed to this robust financial performance. Nkom shared a comparative revenue analysis showing a steady increase over recent years. For instance, revenues grew from N2.37 billion in 2019 to N8.19 billion in October 2024. These improvements were driven by stringent enforcement measures and efficiency in licensing and revenue collection. The director-general emphasised that all revenue is directed to the federal government’s Treasury Single Account (TSA). During an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, chaired by Senator Sampson Ekong, Nkom detailed the NMCO’s responsibilities in issuing mining licenses and improving industry efficiency. He noted that revenue generated from 2019 to October 2024 was N26.23 billion, confirming a 63% increase compared to the previous reporting period. Senator Ekong affirmed the importance of the committee’s visit in promoting transparency and accountability in mining operations. He concluded that collaboration and reforms are crucial for the mining sector’s growth, and pledged to support the MCO’s initiatives aimed at maximising Nigeria’s mining potential.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office is responsible for managing and regulating the country’s mining activities through licensing and revenue collection. The agency plays a vital role in facilitating economic growth by enhancing the solid minerals sector. Recent efforts to modernise their processes and improve transparency are aimed at increasing revenue and operational efficiency, showcasing the government’s strategy to harness the mining industry’s full potential. The significant revenue growth reflects broader efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy away from oil dependence, focusing instead on sustainable mineral extraction.

The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office achieved a remarkable N8.19 billion in revenue in October 2024, showcasing progress in the country’s mining sector. Driven by transparency and digital advancements, this achievement aligns with Nigeria’s goal to diversify its economy. The Senate Committee on Solid Minerals emphasised the need for corporate responsibility and supported collaboration across regulatory bodies for continued improvement and growth within the industry.

Original Source: leadership.ng

The post Nigerian Mining Cadastre Reports Record N8.19bn Revenue in October 2024 first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.