Editor
By Fatima Saka
The Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO), Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, has highlighted the pressing challenges the agency faces, noting that they are numerous and considerable.
Key issues include a severe lack of office space and an absence of capital releases from the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, both of which are affecting the agency’s efficiency.
Engr. Nkom emphasized the NMCO’s funding difficulties, stating, “We face very substantial challenges with office space. Our premises here are provided by the World Bank, and we have had to rent additional space, but even meeting rent obligations has become problematic.”
MCO Boss made these remarks during an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals on Monday in Abuja.
He further elaborated, saying, “We have only two locations, one of which is rented. Even this current office is overcrowded, and conditions are becoming increasingly cramped.” Nkom also pointed to a range of additional issues, including limited funding, workforce shortages, unreliable power supply, inadequate internet, and limited training opportunities.
He stressed that these issues hinder the agency’s strategic initiatives, which aim to support economic growth, boost revenue generation, and implement mining regulations effectively.
Nkom emphasized the importance of expanding funding and enhancing recruitment to employ young people in the mining sector. He also highlighted the need for improved stakeholder engagement to promote local industry benefits and address the needs of indigenous communities.
In response, Senator Sampson Ekong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, assured that the committee is committed to supporting the reform process needed in the mining sector. “The only way to sanitize the sector is through a comprehensive reform process,” he said. “Concerns have been raised about the fees review, and it’s crucial that we establish effective collaboration with all stakeholders. Proper consultation will make addressing these concerns much easier.”
Senator Ekong emphasized the importance of working together to meet the needs of the people, adding, “We are here to understand and respond to these challenges. The committee appreciates the DG for his insights, and we are committed to working as a team to bring about necessary changes.”
The Senator further acknowledged the need to boost revenue generation, stating, “Ramping up revenue is critical not only for the sector but also for the national budget. This sector has significant potential to diversify our economy, and we are committed to seeing this potential realized.”
He thanked the committee members, the DG, and members of the press, adding that the committee looks forward to further discussions with the Minister to advance the reform agenda.
