The thrill of mineral exploration and extraction in Nigeria can sometimes be overshadowed by disputes. Conflicts over mineral titles can arise between stakeholders or even with the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) itself. Recognizing the potential for costly and time-consuming litigation, the MCO has proactively developed a set of guiding principles for resolving these conflicts amicably.
Instead of immediately resorting to legal battles, the MCO’s Monitoring and Coordination Department takes a thoughtful and human-centered approach, reporting directly to the Director General. Their impressive track record of less than 1% litigation speaks volumes about the effectiveness of their methods. Let’s delve into the six key principles that underpin their successful conflict resolution strategy:
1. Engaging All Parties, No Matter How Challenging:
The MCO understands that avoiding difficult conversations or parties only prolongs conflict. Their first principle emphasizes direct engagement with everyone involved. By actively seeking out and listening to all sides, they ensure that no voice is left unheard, paving the way for a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.
2. Building Partnerships, Not Walls:
Often, conflicts arise from a perception of opposing sides. The MCO actively works to dismantle this barrier by affiliating themselves with each party. This approach communicates that the MCO is not a threat or biased entity but rather a partner dedicated to finding mutually acceptable solutions. By fostering a sense of collaboration, they encourage open dialogue and reduce defensiveness.
3. The Power of Empathy and Understanding:
Effective communication hinges on understanding each party’s perspective. The MCO prioritizes empathy, taking the time to truly grasp the viewpoints and concerns of everyone involved. By communicating in a way that resonates with each party’s understanding, they create an environment where individuals feel heard and validated, making constructive discussions significantly easier.
4. Cultivating Trust and Integrity:
Trust is the bedrock of any successful resolution process. The MCO places a strong emphasis on building trust by demonstrating integrity throughout the entire process. When parties believe in the fairness and transparency of the MCO’s approach, they are less likely to hold rigid positions or insist solely on their own way, fostering a more collaborative atmosphere.
5. Fostering Ownership and Accountability:
Blame games are a common obstacle in conflict resolution. The MCO’s approach encourages parties to take ownership of their actions and understand their contribution to the conflict. By shifting the focus from assigning blame to analyzing the roles played by each party, they remove roadblocks and facilitate a more solution-oriented mindset.
6. Maintaining a Calm and Balanced Atmosphere:
Emotions can easily escalate conflicts. The MCO recognizes the importance of maintaining a non-emotional environment during discussions. By consciously avoiding non-verbal cues that can be perceived negatively, such as folding arms, sighing, or interrupting, they create a balanced atmosphere conducive to rational and productive conversations.
A Model for Peaceful Progress:
The Mining Cadastre Office’s six principles offer a valuable framework for resolving mineral title related conflicts in Nigeria. By prioritizing engagement, partnership, empathy, trust, ownership, and emotional neutrality, the MCO demonstrates that disputes can be addressed effectively and efficiently, minimizing the need for costly and protracted litigation. This approach not only benefits the stakeholders involved but also contributes to a more stable and attractive mining sector in Nigeria.
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