Organisation lauds Alake for advancing solid minerals sector
By Martha Agas
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake has been conferred with an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) for his efforts in advancing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
The award was presented to him on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening ceremony of the NMGS 60th Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE).
In his acceptance speech, Alake described the recognition as not just a personal honour but an acknowledgement of the collective commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
He described the theme of the conference, “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors through Innovations,” as timely and aligned with the Federal Government’s vision of modernising and maximising the potential of the key sectors.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mary Ogbe, he noted that innovation remained the cornerstone of sustainable growth.
He highlighted technological advancements, research, and strategic partnerships as key to unlocking new opportunities and driving development.
According to him, the mining industry is undergoing a global paradigm shift, with the adoption of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and automation enhancing exploration and other operations.
“ In Nigeria, we must embrace these innovations to attract investments, increase productivity, and ensure the responsible extraction of our vast energy resources, “ he said.
According to him, the ministry of solid minerals has prioritised the deployment of geospatial data and remote sensing technologies for mineral exploration, aimed at reducing uncertainties and optimising investment decisions.
“Additionally, we are working toward establishing mineral processing hubs to enhance value addition and reduce reliance on raw mineral exports,” he said.
Highlighting the connection between mining, energy, and water resources, he emphasised that sustainable mining practices required responsible energy consumption and water management.
He noted that adopting renewable energy solutions in mining operations, such as solar and hydroelectric power, would reduce carbon footprints and operational costs, ensuring a greener mining industry.
He described the construction industry as a major consumer of solid minerals that relied on materials such as limestone, granite, and gypsum.
“By harnessing innovative technologies in material science and industrial processing, we can improve the quality and durability of construction materials, enhance infrastructural development, and contribute significantly to economic growth.”
He stated that the ministry is strengthening collaborations between mining and construction stakeholders to ensure a sustainable supply chain that prioritised local content and value addition.
According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation-driven growth in the mining and allied sectors.
He reaffirmed commitment to working with the NMGS and all industry players to harness the full potential of Nigeria’s natural resources for national development.
Speaking, NMGS President , Prof. Akinade Olatunji, said the organisation had identified the need of innovation in addressing the myriad of challenges in the various sectors of Nigeria’s economy.
Olatunji noted that if sectors such as water resources, construction, and agriculture underwent the required transformation, it would result in massive advantages for the economy.
In his goodwill message, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr Dele Ayankele urged the government to implement sustainable policies for the industry’s growth.
Ayankele also urged effective monitoring and review mechanisms to prevent policy somersaults.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other recipients of the honorary conferment include the governors of Nasarawa, Abdullahi Sule; Anambra, Prof. Charles Soludo; and Yobe, Mai Mala Buni, among others.
The conference will run from Feb. 16 to Feb. 21. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chioma Ugboma
Published By
- Senior Editor
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