Credible, Relevant Geoscience Data Will Attract Investors – Alake

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has reiterated that credible and relevant geoscience data will attract more investors to the country’s mining sector.

Dr. Alake stated this while declaring open the second annual international conference of Nigerian Association of Exploration Geologists for Geoscientists and Engineers, NAEG,
In Abuja.

Speaking through his Special Assistant on special projects, Yemisi Ajayi, the minister who insisted that Geodata is the bedrock of mining sector stressed that the ministry is committed to getting actual updated data in the industry.

“We have a number of investors trying to come into the industry but all they ask for is data. We can’t achieve anything without data, because it is the bedrock of the mining industry. We are committed to making sure that the mining industry flourish, which can not be done without availability of credible Geoscience data” he emphasized.

The minister urged the participants to collaborate to bring out tangible results, adding that the industry depend on information and suggestions from technical experts to thrive.

On her part, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe emphasized that exploration of geophysical methods to discover and harness mineral resources is critical for the sustainable development of the nation.

The Permanent Secretary who was represented by Mrs. Hauwa Panl appreciated the association for organising sure a conference for the growth and advancement of the nation.

Earlier in his welcome address, the president Nigerian Association of Exploration Geologists for Geoscientists and Engineers, NAEG, Dr Akin George attributed many collapse buildings in the country to neglect of Geoscientists recommendations.

“It was clear from the exercise carried out that the calamities recorded from collapsed buildings in Nigeria, could have been minimised and averted completely, if Geoscientists had been engaged to carry out geotechnical investigation before the commencement of the building construction” Dr. George stated

Dr. George who advised the Geoscientists to ensure that their recommendations are properly followed and adhered to when involved during constructions suggested that a well equipped mining enforcement department be established in the ministry of solid minerals development for enforcement of mining rules and regulations.

“The well equipped enforcement department should be backed by the Nigerian police, EFCC, ICPC, group of qualified lawyers employed in the ministry for the purpose of operating in every government enforcement agency of the federal government” he added.

On his part, the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre, Simon Obadiah Nkom appreciated the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for all his contributions towards the growth of the agency.

In his presentation, the Director General of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, NGSA, Professor Olusegun Omoniyi Ige stressed that the conference is a platform for Geoscientists and Engineers to come together, learn from each other and inspire the next generation of professionals.

“We have the responsibility to harness the power of exploration to drive innovation to inform decision making and shape a better future for our country” he added.

Highlight of the conference was the unveiling of the Association’s journal by the Minister of Solid Minerals development with participants drawn from the 36 states and the FCT.

By Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji