Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary overseeing the Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, has said that the solid minerals sector is enhancing Nigeria’s economic profile.
Ogbe made this statement during the 5th edition of the National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State.
In a press release by Mr. Alaba Balogun, the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, Ogbe explained that this action aims to prepare Nigeria for a smooth transition from the use of fossil fuels and adopt measures to mitigate climate change.
She noted two primary reasons for the nation’s dependence on the solid minerals and metals sector.
“The nation is depending on the solid mineral and metals sector for its economic prosperity for two reasons.
“Fossil fuel is gradually being phased out with the advent of electric cars, we may not get buyers for our fuel.
“Secondly, the world is going green and we must not be left behind, and for us (Nigeria), we are highly blessed with the energy minerals as well,” she said
Ogbe praised the theme of the meeting, “Minerals and Metals Sector: A Panacea for Economic Growth and Diversity,” as appropriate for realising Nigeria’s economic diversification goals, especially in developing its non-oil sector.
The Permanent Secretary stressed that the meeting would contribute significantly to achieving President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for the sector.
She noted that it provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the sector and chart its advancement.
“It is an invaluable platform to chart a way forward for a sustainable development of the minerals and metal sector,” she said.
Describing the meeting as an important milestone in collective efforts for sustainable development in the minerals and metal sector, Ogbe outlined topics to be discussed during the three-day meeting, including policy reforms, investment opportunities, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and fostering innovation in the sector.
NAN
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