Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dele Alake, has invited global investors to leverage the country’s geo-data digital platforms for insights into its rich minerals. At the Mines & Money Conference, he presented key online systems aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the mining sector, while emphasizing the government’s commitment to acquiring more geological data. Alake called for international partnerships to unlock Nigeria’s mineral wealth, aligning with global sustainability efforts.
In a recent statement, Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has extended an invitation to global investors to utilize the country’s digital geo-data platforms to explore its vast mineral wealth. Addressing a gathering of Chief Executive Officers from prominent mining companies at the Mines & Money Conference in London, Minister Alake emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing geological research and generating superior data analytics to foster informed investment decisions.
Alake elaborated on three critical web platforms designed for investor engagement: the Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS), Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+), and the National Geo-Data Centre. The NMRDSS allows users to access detailed geo-scientific data, offering insights into mineral locations and supporting comprehensive analysis for mining operations. Moreover, he described EMC+ as a real-time, online system aimed at streamlining the management of mineral titles, thus promoting efficiency and encouraging remote applications for mining licenses.
In his remarks, Minister Alake highlighted the government’s intent, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, to significantly invest in geological data acquisition to optimize the utility of these platforms. Additionally, he praised the collaborative work of African geoscientists in developing a new coding system for research certification, underscoring the importance of quality data for investors.
“There is an urgent need for value addition in the downstream mining sector,” he asserted, noting that Nigeria is increasingly recognized as a key global supplier of essential minerals necessary for green technologies. He urged multinational mining companies to engage with the Tinubu administration to explore the nation’s extensive mineral deposits, aligning with sustainability and climate initiatives.
In concluding his address, Minister Alake posed a compelling invitation to the global mining community, stating, “The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise… Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey.”
Leaders from major mining companies, such as Barrick and Anglo-American, were present at the conference, providing an opportunity for direct engagement with investors regarding mining ventures in Nigeria.
Overall, the Nigerian government is positioning itself as a vital player in the global mining landscape, leveraging technology to enhance transparency and efficiency in the sector, while simultaneously focusing on sustainability and economic diversification.
Nigeria is rich in solid mineral resources, key to diversifying its economy and participating in the global mining industry. The government’s current push to attract foreign investment through advanced geo-data platforms reflects an understanding of the need for increased efficiency and transparency in the mining sector. Digital tools such as the NMRDSS and EMC+ are critical for providing accessible information to potential investors, which can facilitate informed decision-making and promote the sustainable management of Nigeria’s natural resources.
The Nigerian government, under Minister Dele Alake’s guidance, is making concerted efforts to attract international investment in its mining sector by utilizing advanced digital platforms to provide critical geo-data. This initiative not only enhances transparency and efficiency but also supports Nigeria’s strategic goal of becoming a key player in the global supply of essential minerals. By welcoming partnerships with global mining firms, Nigeria positions itself favorably in the evolving landscape of sustainable mining and economic diversification.
Original Source: punchng.com
