BREAKING: Tension In Nigeria As Tinubu Declares War (DETAILS)

Tinubu declares war on sharp practices in mining sector

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a stern warning, declaring an end to any form of corner-cutting within the solid minerals sector.

He called upon companies and public servants engaged in such practices to desist, cautioning that legal consequences await those who do not comply.

Represented by Secretary to the Federal Government Dr. George Akume, the President addressed the second edition of the Africa Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja.

He emphasized the government’s openness to genuine investors aligned with its vision, while vowing to take action against those undermining the ease of doing business and impeding the sector’s capacity to drive economic transformation.

Under the conference theme “Towards a Just Transition,” President Tinubu asserted that the nation’s natural resources must be effectively mobilized for development. He also highlighted the appointment of Mr. Oladele Alake as Minister of Solid Minerals, tasked with cleansing the sector. Additionally, he mentioned the Federal Executive Council’s endorsement of Alake’s seven-point agenda to revitalize the industry.

The President urged governors to collaborate closely with the Federal Government to amplify mining’s contribution to the economy. He advised them to refrain from interfering in the legitimate operations of licensed operators, as outlined in a statement by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori.

Alake expressed gratitude to the President for the robust support extended to the ministry, affirming the commitment to executing its mandate efficiently. He underscored the event’s significance in the administration’s push to diversify energy sources, promote renewable energy, and implement energy efficiency measures.

“At the heart of this summit, we find the idea of a ‘just transition.’ This concept calls for us to ensure that as we shift towards more sustainable practices in natural resource development and energy production, no one is left behind.

“The just transition demands that we address the social and economic challenges that may arise from shifting away from traditional energy sources.

“We must invest in workforce re-training, creating alternative employment opportunities, and supporting impacted communities.

“Africa must adopt policies that provide a safety net for those who might be negatively affected by this transition,” Alake said.

Acknowledging the establishment of a policy framework for the adept and streamlined handling of specified transition minerals, the Minister emphasized the Federal Government’s acknowledgment of the worldwide trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly technologies. This underscores its dedication to the responsible administration of vital minerals in pursuit of cleaner energy systems, the mitigation of carbon emissions, and the global battle against climate change.

Notable attendees at the event comprised Minister of Steel Development Prince Shuaib Audu, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals, Mary Ogbe, as well as Chairman of Mosra Energy, Olukayode Ramos, among others.