Babatope Agbeyo, Chairman of Gem Giant Ltd, advocates for foreign investment in Nigeria’s mining sector, emphasizing favorable conditions and the importance of community support. Following the signing of a Community Development Agreement, he calls on state governments to ensure safety, security, and compliance with regulations. Oba (Dr) Adebayo Faforiji lauds these efforts and expresses hope for discovering valuable minerals, marking a significant milestone for the local community and the mining industry.
Babatope Agbeyo, Chairman of Gem Giant Ltd, has urged foreign investors to consider Nigeria as a prime investment destination, particularly within the mining sector. He emphasized that the country offers a conducive, safe, and secure environment for investment. Agbeyo’s appeal follows the signing of a Community Development Agreement (CDA) with the Faforiji Community in Osun State, signifying a significant step towards enhancing local mining operations.
Agbeyo called on state governments to foster an enabling environment that supports mining activities, benefiting both the host communities and the broader economy. He further encouraged these governments to ensure safety and security for both the workforce and local residents during mining operations. The Chairman also highlighted the importance of adherence to regulations, particularly the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) guidelines, by all mining companies.
Additionally, Oba (Dr) Adebayo Faforiji, the King of the Faforiji community, praised Gem Giant for its proactive approach in exploring the mineral potential of the area. His remarks were infused with hopes of discovering gold and other valuable minerals that could significantly benefit both the company and the community. He expressed gratitude for Gem Giant’s efforts to investigate the mineral resources within the community, which had previously faced speculation without any concrete action.
The ceremony concluded with the laying of the foundation for the Gem Giant office in Faforiji, symbolizing the commencement of exploration activities that prioritize the welfare of the host community while adhering to international best practices in environmental and social responsibility. The collaborative efforts between the company and the local community signal a promising future for mining in Nigeria, contingent upon continued cooperation and understanding among all stakeholders involved.
In conclusion, the insights shared by Babatope Agbeyo and Oba (Dr) Adebayo Faforiji highlight the significant potential of Nigeria’s mining sector for foreign investors. By creating a conducive environment and prioritizing safety and compliance, both local governments and companies can foster sustainable development that benefits communities economically and socially. The commitment displayed through the CDA with the Faforiji community is a positive step towards realizing these objectives, paving the way for fruitful collaborations in the future.
Original Source: businessday.ng
