The Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has advocated for legislative support to promote local value addition in the mineral sector, insisting that such support would lead to significant employment opportunities and benefits for mineral-rich communities.
Alake made the statement during an oversight visit by the House Committee on Solid Minerals, led by its chairman Honourable Jonathan Gbefwi to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
Alake highlighted the ministry’s focus on value addition and mineral processing as crucial elements of its 7-point agenda, emphasising the immense benefits they offer to Nigeria as a mineral-rich country. He pointed out recent efforts, including promotional tours to mining conferences in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Cape Town, South Africa, aimed at promoting local value addition.
“The era of exporting solid minerals without adding commensurate value is over,” Alake declared.
Addressing the importance of security in achieving economic development, Alake referenced recent meetings of the Presidential Inter-Ministerial Committee on securing natural resources and the launch of a new security outfit by the interior minister to combat illegal mining.
He stressed, “Security is a national issue; securing lives and property is paramount in our seven-point agenda.”
Alake also acknowledged the strong relationship and engagement with the committee, expressing appreciation for their visit and emphasising the importance of collaboration to achieve shared goals.
In response, Gbefwi reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to its oversight duties, stating, “We are empowered by the Constitution to ensure the executive performs its duty. We intend to stretch to the limit.”
Highlighting the significance of the mineral sector to the economy, Gbefwi emphasised its potential to uplift Nigeria from economic challenges. He pledged the committee’s full support to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in realising the sector’s potential.
A statement by the ministry’s deputy director of information and public relations, Alaba Balogun quoted the permanent secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts between the committee and the ministry. She emphasised their shared commitment to harnessing the nation’s mineral resources for economic development and diversification.
The visit and discussions underscore the importance of legislative support and collaboration in advancing Nigeria’s mineral sector towards sustainable development and economic growth.
