FG To Shift From Oil To Solid Minerals Sector 

By Georgina Humphrey

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to shift from oil to Solid Minerals to boost the gross domestic product and GDP.

Dr. Alake stated this when he received a delegation of the Miners Association of Nigeria, led by the National President, Mr Dele Ayanleke in Abuja.

Dr Alake explained that the minerals sector contributes significantly to the nation’s economy hence the need to boost the sector optimally.

“Our vision is to make solid minerals our pride, the solid minerals sector plays a major role in Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and it is our contribution to climate change” Dr. Alake stated.

The minister stated that Nigeria has been operating a mono-cultural economy for decades noting that the shift to solid minerals was long overdue.

The Minister emphasized that the Ministry is committed to making policies that will sanitize, rejig the regulatory framework, and make it more conducive for local and foreign investors to play.

He commended the Association for its suggestive recommendations and consistent role in organizing the Mining Week annually in the country.

Dr. Alake further stressed that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration will engage both state and local governments to resolve issues within the ambit of the law.

Speaking on securing the mining sector environment for maximum yield to the Federal Government, the Minister revealed that technology will be deployed, coupled with an inter-agency task force to address the menace completely.

He therefore sought for partnership with the Miners Association of Nigeria to strengthen capacity in this regard for the growth and repositioning of the sector.

Earlier, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Dele Ayanleke, expressed optimism that the seven-point agenda unfolded by the Minister of Solid Minerals under the renewed hope agenda of this present administration will consolidate and enhance the sector for maximum contribution to national development.

Edited By Grace Namiji