By Fatima Saka
The first day of the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) Conference focused on critical discussions around data, policy enforcement, and the transformation of the mining sector for sustainable development.
These issues were highlighted at the opening ceremony of the 60th Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the NMGS, held in Abuja on Monday. The conference, themed “Transformation of the Minerals, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors Through Innovation,” brought together industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s mining sector.
Understanding the Past, Shaping the Future
Chairman of the event, Mr. Ojunekwu Augustine Avuru (FNMG), emphasized the importance of reviewing Nigeria’s 60-year journey in the mining and minerals sector.
He pointed out that crude oil production, which began around the same time, shifted the country’s focus away from solid minerals, leading to underdevelopment in the sector.
“There are countries with fewer mineral resources than Nigeria, yet their economies thrive on mining. We must assess where we went wrong, how to reintegrate mining into our economic framework, and how to make it a key contributor to GDP,” he stated.
He further stressed the need for strategic discussions on policy implementation, data utilization, and economic diversification to revitalize the sector.
Harnessing Data for Economic Growth
Former Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Olusegun Adedayo, in his presentation titled “Nigeria’s Critical Minerals and Economic Development,” underscored the importance of data consolidation and accessibility.
“There is substantial data within the industry. If we can centralize it, we will realize that Nigeria has more information to work with than we think. The global demand for energy transition minerals is increasing, and Nigeria must position itself to benefit,” he said.
Adedayo emphasized that collaboration, technological advancement, and investment are key to unlocking the sector’s potential. He called for a national mineral data repository to ensure investors have reliable access to information.
“In the oil and gas industry, companies are required to submit quarterly reports. The same should apply to solid minerals. Government enforcement is essential to ensure compliance,” he added.
Addressing the issue of illegal mining, Adedayo acknowledged that while it is a national problem driven by economic hardship, collaboration between communities, investors, and government agencies could provide better structures for regulation.
“Investors need clarity and concrete data before they commit. If we don’t organize ourselves internally, attracting foreign investment will remain difficult. Mining is capital-intensive, and collaboration among geologists, investors, and government institutions is crucial for growth,” he said.
Infrastructure and Engineering Collaboration
Speaking during a panel discussion, Engr. (Mrs.) Aisha Kawu Gombe, PhD, MD/CEO of Tectonics Engineering Group, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between geologists and engineers to improve infrastructure.
“Geotechnical engineers and civil engineers often handle tasks that should involve geologists. In other countries, these fields work together. Nigeria must adopt this approach to enhance infrastructure development,” she stated.
She highlighted poor road conditions as a consequence of inadequate geological assessments before construction.
“Over 70% of our roads have failed. A trip that used to take one hour now takes four. The increase in travel time and accidents is alarming. We must go back to the drawing board to correct these issues,” she urged.
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Call for Educational and Industry Collaboration, Dr. Gombe also stressed the importance of academic collaboration to strengthen the industry.
“The partnership between geology and civil engineering departments in universities must improve. Many geology departments lack engineering labs, while civil engineering departments often lack proper equipment. This gap needs to be bridged to produce well-equipped professionals for the sector,” she added.
Distinct News reports that the 60th NMGS Conference continues with further discussions on policy frameworks, investment strategies, and technological advancements to reposition Nigeria’s mining and geosciences sector for sustainable growth.
