Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called for a closer working relationship with the Senate to boost the country’s solid minerals industry. During an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development to his ministry on Monday, November 4, 2024, Dr. Alake emphasized the need for collaboration to unlock the sector’s full potential and enhance its contribution to Nigeria’s economy.
Dr. Alake outlined the progress made in recent months, including Nigeria’s rising profile in the global minerals market. He credited this success to the ministry’s focus on attracting foreign investment and engaging actively with both local and international stakeholders.
“We’ve made remarkable strides. Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is now recognized as a global player,” he said. This recognition, he added, was evident during the recent Africa Minerals Strategy Group summit, where Nigeria’s policy on local value addition received widespread endorsement.
The minister praised the Senate Committee for its support and feedback, noting that their recommendations had played a significant role in shaping the ministry’s strategies. “Your critical feedback has been vital to our progress. We look forward to an even closer collaboration to ensure our work leaves a lasting legacy,” Dr. Alake stated.
Despite the ministry’s achievements, Dr. Alake acknowledged the financial constraints it faces. He called on the Senate to help address these challenges by advocating for increased funding. According to him, with adequate resources, the ministry could achieve even greater results.
“Our commitment is unwavering. We are determined to transform the solid minerals sector into a significant contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” he assured. The minister highlighted the dedication of the ministry’s staff, emphasizing their shared vision of driving growth and sustainability in the sector.
Senator Ekong Sampson, chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, lauded the ministry’s achievements, particularly its success in boosting revenue despite limited resources. “This sector is crucial to our economy, and we are impressed by the improved revenue profile,” Senator Sampson said.
He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the ministry to maximize the sector’s potential. “Together, through active collaboration, we can drive sustainable development in this essential sector,” he added.
The senator also stressed the importance of establishing a robust legal framework to tackle illegal mining, which he described as a significant threat to the sector’s growth. “Illegal operators not only undermine revenue but also disrupt oversight functions. Stronger legal measures are needed to create a mining environment free from unauthorized activities,” he said.
In addition to addressing immediate challenges, the ministry is planning for the future. Dr. Mary Ogbe, the permanent secretary of the ministry, revealed plans to establish a University of Mines. This institution aims to train skilled professionals with the technical expertise needed to manage Nigeria’s resources sustainably.
“The proposed university will be a critical step in building the human capacity required to advance the solid minerals sector. It will ensure we have the technical knowledge to manage our resources effectively,” Dr. Ogbe explained.
The meeting between the ministry and the Senate Committee underscored their shared vision for the solid minerals sector. Both parties agreed that partnership and mutual support are essential to achieving sustainable growth and maximizing the sector’s impact on the national economy.
Dr. Alake expressed optimism about the future, stating, “With the Senate’s support, we can unlock the full potential of this sector. Together, we can ensure it becomes a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic development.”
As discussions continue, the focus remains on creating a thriving, well-regulated, and globally competitive solid minerals industry that benefits all Nigerians.
