ABUJA: The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has emphasized the need for closer collaboration with the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to address boundary-related conflicts in mining areas.
Dr. Alake made this call during a meeting with the Commission’s Director-General, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, in Abuja, highlighting the importance of the agency in ensuring smooth operations within the ministry, particularly concerning overlapping mining sites and relevant data.
In a statement issued by Mr. Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Dr. Alake stressed the necessity of transferring all geological data housed by the NBC to the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA).
He argued that consolidating geological data under a single entity would simplify access for investors and organizations, preventing fragmentation of critical information.
“All geological data in the country should ideally be deposited in the NGSA office. The NSGA’s primary role should not only include generating data but also serving as the depository of any geological information.
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This will enable ministries and investors to find what they need in one place. Fragmented data makes it difficult for investors to gather what’s necessary to guide their decisions,” Dr. Alake stated.
In response, Mr. Adaji expressed the Commission’s commitment to working closely with the ministry and its agencies to ensure clear boundary definitions in mining zones, particularly in areas where mining licenses cross borders. He also pledged to transfer any geological data held by the Commission to the NGSA.
Mr. Adaji further revealed plans for an upcoming induction training for members of state boundary committees. The training aims to enhance their understanding of boundary delineation issues, dispute resolution, and data generation to support the Commission’s work.
In line with this renewed collaboration, Dr. Alake assured that the NGSA and the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) would work with the NBC to resolve outstanding cases of overlapping mining licenses.
“Let me assure you of our full support in making your work easier because creating a peaceful environment for businesses to thrive is in the country’s best interest. Reducing friction across different sectors will only lead to better outcomes for economic development,” the minister added.
