Abuja: Dr Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), has announced that the Federal Government is actively investing in technological advancements and capacity building to reposition Nigeria’s mining sector. Speaking at the ninth Nigeria Mining Week Pre-conference workshop held in Abuja, Ogbe emphasized the importance of modern technology in attracting significant investments by generating big data for the sector.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ogbe’s presentation, titled ‘Overview of the Nigerian Mining Sector Legal and Regulatory Framework and Policies for Nurturing Local Content in Mineral Exploration and Mining in Nigeria,’ highlighted the government’s efforts to empower Nigerians through capacity building, technological advancements, and research initiatives. She stated, “This focus on human capital development not only enhances productivity but positions Nigeria as a hub of mining expertise and operational excellence.” Ogbe also noted the sector’s progres
s, built on progressive policies, strategic regulations, and a commitment to inclusive growth, urging stakeholders to collaborate with the government to unlock the sector’s full potential.
Dr Esther Udo, Director of Investments Promotion and Mineral Trade, MSMD, elaborated on the ministry’s priorities, including value addition, robust mines surveillance, and strategic data generation. Her paper, ‘The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development’s Strategies for Collaborating with Mineral Titled Holders to Promote their Mineral Assets,’ emphasized the empowerment of mineral title holders as essential stakeholders. Udo mentioned the ministry’s collaboration with title holders to promote their assets and attract credible investors, listing strategies like stakeholder dialogue platforms, policy reforms, and advanced geological data provision.
Mrs Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), presented strategies to attract investors, such as tax holidays, exemption of import d
uties, enhanced security, and improved geological knowledge. Her paper, titled ‘Boosting Mineral Exploration in Nigeria: Strategies to Attract and Secure Domestic and International Investment,’ was delivered by Emmanuel Longza, Deputy Director of the Investment Promotion Department.
The Nigeria Mining Week, organized by the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) and hosted by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, is centered around the theme ‘From the Inside Out: Building the Mining Sector to be the Cornerstone of the Economy.’