Honorable Minister of Solid Minerals Development of Nigeria, Dele Alake, has revealed that there is a successful reduction in illegalities in the mining sector in Nigeria due to the withdrawal of illegal licenses. He made the statement at a book launch and public presentation of “The Beauties of Nigeria.” in Abuja on December 6, 2023.
Represented at the event by Arabinrin Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, he said that the ministry is working assiduously to ensure the progress and prosperity of the sector, “In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, we have, to a large extent, reduced the rate of illegalities in the solid minerals sector to the barest level. Out of 2213 mining title holders, 1633 defaulting titles have been revoked, while 580 law-abiding holders have had their licenses reinstated, a move towards stricter adherence to regulations within the sector,” he said.
Alake continued by articulating the ministry’s success in attracting foreign investors from different countries, notable engagements from China, Mexico, the USA, and the United Kingdom, explaining that the efforts have culminated in the establishment of a lithium battery production factory, with China initiating operations in Nasarawa state as the ministry further anticipate other pipelines to follow in the footsteps.
The Minister remarked, underscoring the pivotal role of the sector in Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy, “The mining industry has enormous potential to improve our communities’ socioeconomic conditions, increase Nigeria’s GDP, create jobs, progress technology, and lessen the nation’s excessive dependency on oil as the Ministry of Solid Minerals continues to pursue initiatives aimed at harnessing the abundant mineral resources across Nigeria, reinforcing its commitment to fostering sustainable growth and development within the sector.
The Minister expressed gratitude to Mr. Bonaventure Melah, author of “The Beauties of Nigeria,” commending the work for its positive portrayal of Nigeria’s potential and calling on all Nigerians to collaborate with the government in achieving the nation’s collective aspirations.
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