Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides in revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector, as outlined in his latest progress report. Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu has prioritized the diversification of Nigeria’s economy, with a strong focus on the solid minerals sector.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, declared a state of emergency in the sector, highlighting the urgent need to address illegal mining activities that have been funding banditry and obstructing the sector’s revenue-generating potential. To combat these challenges, the government has adopted a dual-pronged approach, combining coercive and persuasive measures.
As part of the coercive strategy, a special security outfit called Mining Marshals was established to protect mining sites nationwide. Personnel were drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and to date, 2,570 personnel have been inaugurated. Over 300 illegal miners have also been arrested and prosecuted1.
On the persuasive front, the government aims to formalize the activities of artisanal and illegal miners. To this end, 250 cooperatives have been established to facilitate their transition to legal mining. This initiative is expected to boost local economies and create jobs, contributing to sustainable development.
In addition, the administration has introduced the Value Addition Policy, requiring all companies seeking mining licenses to present detailed plans for adding value to minerals before their licenses are granted. This policy aims to ensure that Nigeria’s mineral resources are not undervalued in international markets.
The recent inauguration of an ultra-modern analysis laboratory in Sabon-Wuse, Niger State, owned by African Natural Resources and Mines Limited (ANRML), is a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing the mining sector. Equipped with state-of-the-art Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WDXF) machines, the lab offers comprehensive geochemical services essential for the exploration and mining industries1.
President Tinubu’s progress report underscores the administration’s dedication to transforming Nigeria’s mining sector and harnessing its vast potential for economic growth. With these bold initiatives, Nigeria is poised to become a global leader in the mining industry.
SOURCE: NAN
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