By Victoria Onehi
The Minister, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called for a reinforced partnership with the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development to propel Nigeria’s solid minerals sector toward sustained economic impact.
Speaking during an oversight visit by the team led by its Chairman, Senator Ekong Sampson, to the Ministry’s headquarters on Monday November 4, 2024, the Minister highlighted the Ministry’s recent achievements and ambitious vision for solidifying Nigeria’s role in the global minerals landscape.
Dr. Alake commended the Ministry’s progress in attracting foreign investment and expanding Nigeria’s presence on the international stage, particularly after Nigeria’s local value-addition policy was endorsed at the recent Africa Minerals Strategy Group summit.
Dr. Alake noted that Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is now a global player attributing these strides to the Ministry’s active engagement with both local and international stakeholders.
The Minister expressed gratitude to the Senate Committee for their insightful recommendations and ongoing support. “Your critical feedback has been vital to our progress.We look forward to an even closer collaboration with the Senate to ensure our work leaves a lasting legacy.”he stated.
Dr. Alake also outlined the Ministry’s significant revenue growth achieved despite budget constraints, urging the Senate to address the Ministry’s funding needs to expand impact further. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to transforming solid minerals into a top contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product, emphasizing that every Ministry staff member is dedicated to achieving this shared vision.
According to a statement by the Ministry,the Minister reiterated the governments commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and accountable mining environment, pledging to further educate mining operators on the importance of legislative oversight. By fostering this partnership between lawmakers and operators, he explained, the Ministry aims to enhance regulatory compliance and strengthen industry standards for long-term growth.
He highlighted a two-pronged strategy designed to ensure both industry expansion and support for local operators. The first strategy focuses on establishing fair, transparent regulatory frameworks, while the second prong prioritizes local participation through a redistribution model that gives preference to Nigerian operators. This dual approach will empower our local stakeholders and anchor the mining economy firmly in Nigeria’s resources and talent.
In a his efforts to combat illegal mining, Dr. Alake disclosed plans to acquire satellite technology that will enable real-time monitoring of mining operations. This innovative approach will allow the Ministry to observe production levels and resource extraction in real time, ensuring adherence to approved limits and reducing unauthorized practices. He, among other things, emphasised that satellite surveillance will not only enhance oversight, but will also improve revenue collection and environmental protection.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Ekong Sampson, commended the Ministry’s achievements, particularly in improving revenue performance. “This sector is crucial to our economy, and we are impressed by the improved revenue profile,”.
He added that the Committee is committed to maximising the sector’s potential through partnership with the Ministry.
The Chairman assured of the Committee’s continued support for the Ministry’s objectives, recognizing the solid minerals sector’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic advancement. “Together with the Ministry and through active collaboration, we are confident in our ability to drive sustainable development in this essential sector,” he affirmed.
He also highlighted the need for a robust legal framework to curb illegal mining. “Illegal operators not only undermine revenue but also disrupt oversight functions. By enacting stronger legal measures, we can create a mining environment free from unauthorized activities,” he said.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Mary Ogbe, shared plans to establish a Nigerian University of Mines to develop skilled professionals with the technical expertise required for sustainable resource management. “Our vision is to equip experts who will drive innovation and best practices in mining to fuel Nigeria’s economic growth,” she stated, applauding the Senate Committee for their support and partnership in advancing the sector.
