Minister Alake highlights commitment to mining sector at NMGS Conference
Tue Feb 18 2025
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has hailed his recent conferment with an honorary fellowship by the Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) as a recognition of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to reposition the mining sector.
The minister emphasized that the advancement of the sector is a collective responsibility, requiring collaboration across all stakeholders. Dr. Alake made these remarks during the 60th annual International Conference and Exhibition of the NMGS, which was held under the theme “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water and Construction Sectors Through Innovations.”
In his keynote address, he discussed the global shift in the mining industry towards adopting digital technologies, underscoring the importance of innovation in attracting investment, boosting productivity, and ensuring the responsible extraction of the nation’s vast mineral resources.
“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has prioritized the use of geospatial data and remote sensing technologies to enhance mineral exploration, reduce uncertainties, and optimize investment decisions,” Dr. Alake said. “We are also focused on establishing mineral processing hubs to add value and reduce reliance on raw mineral exports.”
The minister, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Mary Ogbe, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation-driven growth within the mining sector.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as strengthening regulatory frameworks for responsible mining, promoting research and development through partnerships with universities, and providing support to artisanal and small-scale miners through mechanization and improved access to funding.
Dr. Alake also called on the NMGS to foster industry collaborations that would drive the transformation of the mining industry and help realize the full potential of Nigeria’s natural resources for national development.
“I am profoundly grateful to the NMGS for this honor,” he added. “Together, through innovation and collaboration, we will build a resilient and prosperous future for Nigeria’s mining and geosciences sector.”
Dignitaries at the event included Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPCL Mele Kyari, President of NMGS Akinlade Olatunji, Director-General of the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) Engr. Obadiah Nkom, and Director-General of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) Prof. Olusegun Ige, among others.
Source: https://www.westernpost.ng/