The time where Nigeria’s huge resources in the Solid Minerals sector were left fallow has passed. Solid minerals are now at the forefront of an aggressive economic development in Nigeria.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake is deploying creativity and innovation in his commitment to the repositioning of the sector for the good of Nigeria.
Already, it is safe to say that the progenitor of the 7-point agenda of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Alake has given the solid minerals sector wings to fly into the big league of economic growth, and even dominate it. It is a 7-point agenda with 7-star performance.
The 7-point agenda are: establish the Nigerian Solid Minerals Company Limited which shall be private sector driven; enter joint ventures with mining multinationals; invest in big data gathering on specific priority minerals and their deposits; integrate illegal miners to join artisanal cooperatives; mines surveillance task force and mines police; comprehensive review of all mining licences and creation of six (6) mineral processing centres to focus on value added products. Dr Alake is irrevocably committed to achieving this agenda.
To a very great extent, the Renewed Hope mantra of President Bola Tinubu is highly pronounced here, as it has found expression in the diligence and excellence of Dr Dele Alake.
Dr Alake is leading a fulfilling stimulation of Nigeria’s economic greatness through foreign direct investment which he has significantly attracted by re-positioning the mining sector with attendant economic flourish, wealth creation and employment generation.
Dr Alake has mobilized capital for critical mining projects, with the aim of using it to revitalize Nigeria’s hitherto ailing or even comatose economy.
The vision of the foresighted Minister on this well thought out initiative is to deploy the funds to support early-stage mineral exploration and development, which will fast track Nigeria to the rung of the ladder where leaders in the sector occupy, making the country a force to reckon with, being at par with other countries, and remaining solid in the solid minerals globally.
This is complemented and even propelled by commensurate legislative backing with the approval of the Draft Nigerian Minerals and Mining Bill 2023.
This marked the commencement of regulatory reforms for the mining sector, a critical leg, germane to the solid minerals development of Nigeria. The is a major step to achieving the envisaged economic development in the country, in line with the visionary leadership of Mr President.
The thrust of the bill is to achieve the streamlining of operations, achieve investor confidence, and promote sustainable mining practices across Nigeria, so that it could serve as economic stimulant to the country.
The innovative leadership of Dr Dele Alake in the Solid Minerals Development sector has defied gender divides and other discriminatory policies, surmounting whatever potential impediments.
This is seen in the unveiling of the Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) which marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s mining industry. This collaborative effort with N & G Consulting Firm Ltd under the MinDiver programme, is designed to empower women and foster innovation, carrying with it the policy of inclusivity which is a hallmark of participatory democracy.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake understands the gains of collaboration and working in partnership with State Governments across Nigeria with the unity of purpose, and as partners in progress. This has necessitated his ministry’s effort at strengthening partnerships and perfecting working relationships with the respective State Governments.
All of these are targeted at shaping a brighter future the Nigerian mining industry and hoisting Nigeria on the totem pole of global mining sector with commensurate economic rejuvenation.
Dr Alake is building goodwill, clamping wobbly bridges and activating relationships and contacts to facilitate and fast track flourish through the mining industry and the solid minerals sector as a whole.
Among others, Dr Alake visited Ilesha, Osun State to inspect Segilola Resources Operating Limited, a Nigerian gold mining firm, in alignment with his 7-point agenda. This is one out of many of such visits.
From his mastery and commitment to the interpretation of President Bola Tinubu’s policies in solid minerals sector, to his aggressive drive in ensuring that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is at the forefront of economic development of the country, Dr Alake is a huge asset to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, and is highly commended for his selflessness and passion in leading the all important ministry.
His dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector is top-notch, especially the priority given to the utilization of local resources, while not derailing from the path of global standards.
Meanwhile, Dr Alake is tackling illegal mining headlong with initiatives such as the deployment of mining marshalls nationwide.
Illegal mining sites have been shut down across the country while States are being supported to effectively secure mining sites.
Already, two Chinese nationals have been sentenced for illegal mining as no one is treated with kid gloves.
There are plans to establish jewelry training centres nationwide to empower youths.
Dr Alake is collaborating with relevant government agencies and institutions, just as President Bola Tinubu applauds the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development on the opening of Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant.
As the administration of President Bola Tinubu marks one year in office, this is celebrating Dr Alake for stenciling his name in the innermost chambers of the hearts of Nigerians through a fantastic leadership in the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development!
Congratulations, Honourable Minister!
Kudos for a job well-done, even as we expect more as you sail along!
This article is sponsored by:
Hajiya Zainab A. Ibrahim
Director General,
Advocates for Good Governance and Humanity (Renewed Hope)
Abuja.