Kwara Exchanges Notes with Ogun on Mining Reform, Mulls Other States
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
In a strategic move to bolster its mining sector, the Kwara State Government has announced plans to collaborate with other states renowned for their success in mining.
The initiative, aimed at exchanging ideas and practices, was revealed by Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, the Honourable Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, during a meeting with experienced mining consultants from Ogun State on Thursday, May 9, 2024.
Dr. Alabi explained that the forthcoming visits to these states are crucial for enhancing revenue generation, protecting local communities from environmental harm, and tackling illegal mining activities.
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Alabi said the visit of the consultants is timely as it aligns with the national push towards diversifying the economy through non-oil exports, focusing significantly on solid minerals.
“The mining sector is critical and a primary focus within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight-point agenda,” Dr. Alabi stated, projecting the potential benefits of this inter-state collaboration in addressing security challenges and illegal mining while boosting revenue.
Responding to the commissioner’s remarks, Steve Ipiniwa, a retired Director and Permanent Secretary from Ogun State, reiterated imperative of leveraging agriculture and mineral resources for economic development.
He noted that, although mining regulation and licensing are federally controlled, there is ample opportunity for state governments to develop this sector through appropriate legislation.
Ipiniwa also advised on the importance of internal capacity building, recommending practical training for geologists to keep abreast of new information and trends that could aid the state ministry’s effectiveness.
Earlier, Wale Olarewaju, Chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ogun State, called for a comprehensive stakeholder engagement involving government leaders, local authorities, traditional rulers, and private sector participants to foster better regulation, monitoring, and compliance.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from the Permanent Secretary, Tpl. Isiaq Yinka Olokooba, who expressed gratitude to the guests for their invaluable insights and expertise.
