From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development and Chairman of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), Dr Dele Alake, has called for a strategic shift in Africa’s approach to its vast mineral wealth, urging a move from extractive dependence to transformative industrialisation.
Delivering the keynote address at the African Mining Week, themed “Vision & Strategy – Setting the stage for Minerals Industrialisation”, Dr Alake lamented that Africa’s minerals have long powered industrial growth abroad, while African economies remain under-industrialised.
“Africa must transition from being a mere supplier of raw minerals to a driver of global industrial growth,” he said, stressing that the continent’s mineral wealth is critical to clean energy, digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, and global security.
Represented by Permanent Secretary Farouk Yabo, Dr Alake outlined Nigeria’s reforms in the mining sector, including incentivising local beneficiation (e.g., gold refining, lithium processing), revoking dormant mining licences, strengthening governance and transparency, and developing a National Critical Minerals Strategy.
He added that Nigeria is committed to building a $1 trillion economy by 2030, supported by digitised mining processes, enhanced mineral traceability, and an amended 2007 Minerals and Mining Act.
Dr Alake emphasised the need for mineral mapping, regulation of licensed operators, and capacity building for effective oversight, aligning with views expressed by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Nigeria also participated in the country spotlight session, showcasing investment opportunities and highlighting reforms, incentives, and the nation’s mineral endowments.
The event was attended by mining ministers and representatives from countries including the DRC, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Ghana, alongside major private sector stakeholders.
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