The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has announced plans to enforce strict disciplinary measures against federal mine officers who fail to adequately perform their duties.
According to the New Agency of Nigeria, This directive was issued by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.
Alake emphasized that the decision is part of a broader initiative aimed at overhauling the mining sector to boost its contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
As part of this restructuring, mine officers have been reassigned to various locations across the country, a move intended to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
To further strengthen the sector, the minister disclosed that satellite imaging technology would be employed as part of the ministry’s strategy to regulate the industry more rigorously.
He highlighted that this technological deployment is expected to attract reputable investors and bolster the efforts of the Mining Marshals in curbing illegal mining activities and ensuring the prosecution of offenders.
Moreover, Alake revealed that a recent collaborative meeting between the Federal Government and key stakeholders in the mining industry led to a consensus supporting the revision of mining licence rates.
He noted, “This review aims to align the sector with current market realities and to ensure more effective management of the country’s mineral resources.”
NAN reported that on July 5, Minister Alake had announced an increase in rates and charges associated with various activities within the mining sector.
This adjustment, he stated, is a strategic move to position the sector for stronger economic growth.
Alake mentioned further mentioned that discussions by a joint task force comprising the ministry and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum would be intensified to address ongoing challenges within the sector.
Among these are issues raised by stakeholders regarding the interference of state governments in mining operations, which has been a significant point of contention.
