Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Minister, Dele Alake, has invited global investors to utilize advanced geo-data platforms that provide vital information about the country’s mineral resources. During the Mines & Money Conference, he shared insights on three key platforms, NMRDSS, EMC+, and the National Geo-Data Centre, intending to enhance transparency and streamline title applications. Alake advocated for greater collaboration to maximize mineral resource potential for economic diversification.
Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Development Minister, has urged global investors to leverage the country’s geo-data digital platforms to facilitate access to vital information concerning its abundant mineral resources. As part of new initiatives, Minister Alake announced plans to enhance geological research funding and consolidate findings from public and private institutions to enrich the existing data landscape.
In his address to Chief Executive Officers attending the Mines & Money Conference in Islington, UK, Minister Alake emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to adopting digital technology in mineral marketing. This move aims to streamline business inquiries and ensure greater transparency in transactions. He presented three essential digital platforms for investors: the Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS), the Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+), and the National Geo-Data Centre.
The NMRDSS offers users read-only access to geo-scientific data, enabling informed decision-making regarding mineral activity locations. Alake described it as a robust tool that provides insights into hydrology, demography, and urban planning, thus creating opportunities for potential investors. In discussing EMC+, he noted it functions as a real-time online system that administers mineral title applications, enhancing operational efficiency.
Furthermore, Minister Alake reassured stakeholders of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to acquire more geological data to bolster the value of these platforms. He praised African geoscientists for developing a new coding system to validate research reports, emphasizing the importance of value addition within the mining value chain.
Highlighting Nigeria’s potential as a supplier of critical minerals, including lithium and rare earth elements, the minister articulated the nation’s strategic position in the green economy transition, aligning with global sustainability goals. He called upon major mining firms to collaborate with the federal government to diversify Nigeria’s economy, thus unlocking its vast mineral resources.
As he concluded, Minister Alake expressed optimism regarding the future of Nigeria’s solid mineral sector, inviting international companies to participate in what he termed a “transformative journey”.
In recent years, Nigeria has recognized the potential of its solid minerals sector as a vital contributor to economic diversification and sustainability. The government has initiated several programs to attract foreign investment, emphasizing the importance of harnessing geological data to improve the investment landscape. The establishment of digital platforms represents a significant shift towards transparency and accessibility in the mining sector, enabling investors to make informed decisions based on comprehensive geo-data.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s appeal to global investors through advanced geo-data platforms underscores its commitment to enhancing the mining sector’s transparency and efficiency. With strategic investments in geological research and an invitation for collaboration, the Nigerian government aims to position the nation as a key player in the supply of critical minerals as the world shifts towards a greener economy. Minister Alake’s call to action reinforces Nigeria’s readiness to engage with the global mining community for mutual benefit.
Original Source: punchng.com
