Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlighted the transformative impact of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms on Nigeria’s mining sector. According to The Nation, Alake emphasized that these reforms have not only revitalized interest but have also bolstered investor confidence, paving the way for increased investments and revenue generation.
Central to the success story are the initiatives laid out in Tinubu’s administration, particularly the implementation of a comprehensive 7-point agenda aimed at restructuring and sanitizing the mining landscape. Alake pointed to the deployment of mining marshals as a pivotal strategy in combating illegal mining activities nationwide, resulting in significant strides towards environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.
"We have apprehended over 300 illegal operators, with more than 133 currently facing prosecution," Alake stated, underscoring the efficacy of the mining marshals in enforcing adherence to mining regulations.
To further enhance monitoring and enforcement capabilities, the minister disclosed plans to integrate satellite surveillance systems across mining sites in Nigeria. This technological upgrade will enable real-time monitoring from the Minister’s office, swiftly identifying illicit activities and facilitating prompt intervention by mobile mining marshals.
Alake also urged prospective investors to capitalize on Nigeria’s vast mineral resources, citing substantial deposits such as over 40 million tonnes of talc spread across states like Niger, Osun, Kogi, Ogun, and Kaduna. Additionally, he highlighted the presence of approximately 1 billion metric tonnes of iron ore in states including Kogi, Enugu, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as substantial reserves of lead and zinc in eight states.