By Fatima Saka
The Stakeholders in Nigeria’s mining and geosciences industry have stressed the need for the country to leverage energy and technological innovation to achieve sustainable national growth.
They particularly highlighted the importance of establishing geoscience institutes to advance the sector.
Speaking at the 60th Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE) of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) on Tuesday in Abuja, experts noted that no nation can afford to neglect its energy sector.
The Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Audu Sule, emphasized the need to integrate technology and innovation into the mining industry.
“Let us follow what we have been saying with action. That is what has been missing in Nigeria,” he stated. “If we take decisive steps, this 60th anniversary could mark the beginning of something significant for our country.”
Engr. Sule also commended Bailey Akari, Group CEO, for his leadership in advancing energy security, urging stakeholders to take the sector more seriously.
Citing his visit to China, he observed how the country prioritizes mining education by dedicating entire universities to the field.
He also visited Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) the world’s largest lithium battery producer and emphasized Nigeria’s potential in lithium mining.
“Nigeria is blessed,” he added. “We are making progress in lithium because we understand its importance. Our oil and gas sector is also vast, with over 220 trillion standard cubic feet of gas reserves and about 40 billion barrels of oil.”
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry Dele Alake, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Mary Ogbe, emphasized the conference theme: Transformation of the Minerals, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors Through Innovation.
Dr. Alake highlighted the government’s commitment to modernizing these sectors through technological advancements, research, and strategic partnerships.
“The mining industry is undergoing a paradigm shift globally, driven by digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and automation. Nigeria must embrace these innovations to attract investment, boost productivity, and ensure responsible resource extraction,” he said.
He also announced key government initiatives:
Geospatial data and remote sensing: To optimize mineral exploration and investment decisions.
Mineral processing hubs: To enhance local value addition and reduce raw material exports.
Sustainable mining practices: Integrating renewable energy (solar, hydroelectric) and water conservation technologies.
Construction sector innovation: Advancing material science and industrial processing to improve infrastructure quality and efficiency.
“The government is also reviewing Nigeria’s mining laws to align with global best practices while promoting research, mechanization for artisanal miners, and expanding mineral beneficiation programs.
“As we deliberate in this conference, let us integrate innovation into every aspect of our work,” Dr. Alake urged stakeholders.
In his keynote address, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, CEO of NNPC Ltd., emphasized that energy security is fundamental to national stability.
“Energy security is not just about revenue generation, it underpins national security. Many global conflicts revolve around energy, and we must prioritize this sector,” he noted.
He cited recent U.S. pipeline attacks, emphasizing that energy vulnerabilities exist worldwide. He also linked energy security to the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, stating that innovations in solar power, lithium, and silicon production are critical for Nigeria’s future.
“Geoscience is at the core of global industrial transformation, and NMGS must continue fostering innovation in this space,” Kyari added.
Earlier, Prof. Akinade Shadrach Olatunji, NMGS President, underscored the conference’s role as Nigeria’s premier geoscience and mining forum.
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“For 60 years, this conference has been a hub for groundbreaking ideas that shape governance and industry policies,” he stated.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to prioritize self-sufficiency in natural resource management:
“A resource-rich nation cannot afford to rely on foreign imports while neglecting local development. We must break free from the cycle of selling raw materials cheaply and buying back finished products at high costs.”
“With global nationalist movements reshaping trade policies, Nigeria must adopt a strategic approach to resource management, ensuring that its wealth benefits its people.
“We cannot be a nation blessed with vast resources yet struggle to finance our government or provide jobs for our citizens,” Prof. Olatunji said..
The President of NMGS reaffirmed that the 60th AICE the importance of innovation, energy security, and policy reform in transforming Nigeria’s mining and geoscience sector.
He further urged stakeholders to practically implementation of strategies to ensure sustainable development and economic growth.
