Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has urged the nation to advance beyond simple mineral extraction, advocating for value addition and local processing to unlock the sector’s potential. During the Annual Nigeria Mining Week, he outlined government initiatives aimed at boosting the economy through job creation and local business support. The event emphasizes collaboration among stakeholders to address current challenges and future opportunities in mining, reinforcing Nigeria’s role in the global market.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has emphasized the necessity for Nigeria to move beyond mere extraction in the mining sector to fully harness its potential. At the commencement of the Annual Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja, Alake highlighted Nigeria’s wealth of 44 minerals and the importance of establishing systems that promote local value addition, processing, and beneficiation. He stated that this transformation aims to turn Nigeria’s natural wealth into industrial and economic strength, ultimately enhancing job creation and fostering local businesses. Dr. Alake announced that, as part of this initiative, lithium processing plants have been inaugurated in Nasarawa State and additional plants are planned around the Federal Capital Territory. He underscored the government’s commitment to ensure that mineral resources are processed domestically instead of being exported in raw form, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s presence in the global mineral value chain. The minister delineated security measures being taken against illegal mining practices, indicating that both persuasive and coercive methods would be employed. The ongoing Mining Week serves as an exceptional platform for stakeholders, including investors, experts, and government officials, to converge and establish partnerships geared towards fostering innovation, financing, and policy advancement. Moreover, the theme of this year’s event, “From the Inside Out: Building the Mining Sector to be the Cornerstone of the Economy,” reflects a collective pledge by stakeholders to develop a mining industry that supports national prosperity, sustainable growth, and industrialization. Mr. Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, characterized the mining week as vital for evaluating sector progress, setting future goals, and showcasing new technologies. Partner at Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) Nigeria, Habeeb Jaiyeola, remarked that the event aims to display the accomplishments of the sector to both local and international audiences, addressing critical issues for Nigeria to thrive amid a shift towards cleaner energy.
Nigeria is rich in mineral resources, possessing 44 different minerals including those crucial for the energy transition. The country’s mining sector has traditionally focused on extraction rather than value addition. Recent government efforts, however, aim to reposition the industry to better benefit local communities through increased processing and diversification, which could significantly influence the economy and generate employment opportunities. The Annual Nigeria Mining Week serves as a platform to implement these initiatives and discuss challenges and opportunities within the sector.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s mining sector is at a pivotal point where the government, under the leadership of Dr. Dele Alake, is advocating for a shift from extraction to value-added processing. By doing so, Nigeria aims to secure its role in the global mineral market, enhance local economic development, and implement robust security measures against illegal mining. The Annual Nigeria Mining Week represents a concerted effort to foster collaboration and innovation necessary for achieving these transformative goals.
Original Source: nannews.ng
