The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has said that with the emergence of the global energy transition, there has never been a more critical moment for decisive leadership.

This was as he underscored the importance of global partnerships in building a resilient and sustainable mining sector at the ongoing Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Forum in Paris, France.

Highlighting the critical role of mining in the global shift toward greener energy, Alake emphasised the need for smarter site selection, optimised operations, sustainable processing, waste management, and environmental stewardship as a responsibility owed to future generations, not merely a policy aspiration.

The minister outlined Nigeria's proactive steps to attract investment into its solid minerals sector, citing investor-friendly incentives such as import duty waivers, accelerated capital allowances, and tax holidays. He stressed that these incentives are being implemented alongside robust reforms that prioritise sustainable extraction, domestic processing, and enhanced infrastructure connectivity.

Alake said, “These reforms are already delivering results. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Nigeria generated N6.96 billion in mining license fees, formalised over 1,200 artisanal and small-scale mining cooperatives, and registered 118 private mineral buying centres. Our Mining Cadastral Office processed nearly 1,000 title applications, with hundreds of licenses approved to accelerate responsible development.”

Alake also highlighted Africa’s strategic importance in the global energy transition, noting the continent’s growing share in the global supply of critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum. He called for a paradigm shift from Africa, being mere exporters of raw materials, to becoming leaders in value-added processing and high-value mineral supply chains.

“As Chair of the Africa Mineral Strategy Group (AMSG), I work closely with my counterparts across the continent to advance a shared agenda of value addition, resource mobilisation, and responsible development,” he affirmed. “Our focus is clear—unlocking inclusive growth from Africa’s vast mineral wealth.”

Reiterating the need for cooperation, Dr. Alake stressed that building resilient, transparent, and ethical mineral supply chains requires multi-stakeholder collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and local communities.

“Nigeria is ready to work with global partners to promote responsible sourcing, encourage beneficiation, and deliver long-term economic value,” he concluded.

ASA