ABUJA: In a push to elevate Nigeria’s solid minerals sector as a cornerstone of economic growth, Dr. Dele Alake, Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has called for a reinforced partnership with the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development.
Speaking on Monday, November 4, 2024, during an oversight visit by the committee, led by Senator Ekong Sampson, Dr. Alake outlined the Ministry’s transformative goals and recent strides in strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the global minerals landscape.
According to a statement by Mrs. Chinwe Ekwugha, Dr. Alake commended the Ministry’s success in attracting foreign investment, further boosted by the recent endorsement of Nigeria’s local value-addition policy at the Africa Minerals Strategy Group summit. “Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is now a global player,” Dr. Alake stated, underscoring the Ministry’s active engagement with both domestic and international stakeholders.
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The Minister thanked the Senate Committee for its constructive input and assured them of the Ministry’s commitment to continued collaboration. “Your critical feedback has been vital to our progress,” he said. “We look forward to working even more closely with the Senate to create a lasting legacy for Nigeria.”
Dr. Alake also highlighted the Ministry’s record revenue growth, despite limited budgets, and urged the Senate to consider increased funding to expand the Ministry’s impact. He reiterated the Ministry’s aim to transform the solid minerals sector into a top contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), stressing that every Ministry staff member is aligned with this shared vision.
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In his address, the Minister emphasized a two-pronged strategy for sector expansion: implementing transparent, equitable regulations and prioritizing local participation. “This dual approach will empower our local stakeholders and anchor the mining economy in Nigeria’s resources and talent,” he explained.
Dr. Alake announced plans to adopt satellite technology for real-time monitoring of mining activities, aiming to curb illegal mining practices and protect the environment. “Satellite surveillance will enhance oversight, improve revenue collection, and ensure environmental stewardship,” he said, marking a major step toward regulatory innovation in the sector.
Senator Ekong Sampson, Chairman of the Senate Committee, lauded the Ministry’s achievements, particularly in boosting revenue, and underscored the committee’s commitment to unlocking the sector’s potential. “This sector is crucial to our economy, and we are impressed by the improved revenue profile,” he remarked. Senator Sampson emphasized the need for a robust legal framework to combat illegal mining and pledged the Committee’s full support for the Ministry’s vision.
Also speaking, Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, shared plans to establish a Nigerian University of Mines, aimed at cultivating skilled professionals for sustainable resource management. “Our vision is to equip experts who will drive innovation in mining and fuel Nigeria’s economic growth,” she stated, thanking the Senate Committee for its steadfast support.
With strengthened partnerships and groundbreaking initiatives, Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is positioned to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic transformation.
