*Photo: Dr Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development *
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has reaffirmed the federal government’s determination to reposition Nigeria’s mining sector as a robust revenue source for the country.
Addressing participants of the National Defence College Course 33, Alake spotlighted key reforms introduced under President Tinubu’s administration that have attracted global interest, setting Nigeria on the path to becoming Africa’s premier mining hub.
Dr. Alake outlined several strategic initiatives aimed at tackling the sector’s challenges. Among these is the establishment of Mining Marshals to curb illegal mining activities, the formation of over 152 artisanal mining cooperatives, and the launch of the digitized Electronic Mining Cadastre (EMC+) system, streamlining licensing and making critical data accessible to investors.
Alake further emphasized the government’s recent launch of the Nigeria Minerals Decision Support System (NMDSS), a comprehensive online platform that provides investors worldwide with essential insights, simplifying the investment decision-making process.
He underscored ongoing efforts to secure funding for exploration, crucial for generating geo-data to drive investment and expansion in the sector.
The Minister also addressed community engagement, noting the revised Community Development Agreements (CDA), which now require prospective mining operators to obtain host community consent before applying for licenses.
Furthermore, the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) has been strengthened, with states empowered to nominate five of its eight members, reinforcing local oversight on environmental and social standards.
On the international front, Dr. Alake announced that Nigeria’s push for local mineral value addition had prompted the formation of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), with him as its inaugural chairman. The group advocates for processing minerals within Africa, maximizing economic benefits for the continent’s citizens.
Alake concluded his remarks by urging Course 33 participants to lead in fostering a patriotic mindset, essential for sustainable national development.
In a panel session, he reiterated his vision for the mining sector, aiming to make it a substantial contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), leaving a legacy of growth and prosperity for the nation.
