By Palma Ileye
In a decisive step toward advancing sustainability in Nigeria’s mining sector, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, MSMD, Dr. Mary Ogbe has called on industry leaders to prioritize environmental responsibility, community engagement, and compliance with climate-friendly practices.
Speaking at a sensitization program organized by the Ministry’s Mining Environmental Compliance, MEC, Department, Ogbe, who was represented at the occasion by the Director, Artisanal and Small Scale Mining, Mr Yunusa Mohammed, outlined key initiatives to promote a mining sector that supports both economic development and environmental stewardship.
Addressing Mineral Title Holders, mining host communities, and key stakeholders, she emphasized the Federal Government’s dedication to creating a mining industry that aligns with global and national environmental goals.
She in the Ministry’s press release issued by Chinwe Ekwugha noted that MSMD’s initiatives were rooted in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which mandates strict environmental protocols throughout the mining lifecycle.
“Responsible mining is not an option; it is a necessity. Our vision is for a mining industry that drives economic growth, while protecting our environment and strengthening our communities,” she stated.
The Permanent Secretary outlined key focus areas to guide Nigeria’s mining sector toward a sustainable future.
According to her, MSMD was prioritizing climate action by encouraging renewable energy use and sustainable mining technologies to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.
Emphasizing strict environmental compliance, she said that the Ministry was leveraging the Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation Fund, EPRF, to support restoration and uphold accountability.
Additionally, she said that the MSMD was strengthening community engagement through the Community Development Agreement, CDA, which mandates that mining companies invest in the welfare of host communities adding that, “Finally, the Ministry is promoting research and innovation to develop climate-friendly technologies that align with Nigeria’s environmental objectives.”
This annual sensitization program, she explained, serves as a platform for stakeholders to discuss these critical priorities, share best practices, and collaborate on solutions that will elevate Nigeria’s mining sector as a model of responsible resource management.
She called on all attendees to actively participate, contribute insights, and align their operations with MSMD’s vision of a sustainable and resilient mining industry.
In her address at the gathering, the Director, Mines Environmental Compliance, MEC, Department, Dr. Vivian Okono emphasized the core purpose of the one-day Sensitization Programme.
She explained that the event aimed to raise awareness about the crucial importance of adhering to environmental regulations by Mineral Title Holders.
She said, “This initiative also sought to underscore the need to safeguard the rights of communities hosting mining operations.”
Okono highlighted several critical issues identified by the Permanent Secretary, which needed urgent attention.
Addressing these issues, she said was vital for ensuring that mining operations in the country were conducted in a manner that was both environmentally sustainable and socially responsible, while adhering to national regulations and international environmental standards.
The goodwill messages delivered at the occasion expressed strong and unwavering support for the Ministry in its crucial mission to drive macroeconomic growth within the mining sector, in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. They highlighted the Ministry’s pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s mining industry and enhancing its contribution to national development.
Additionally, the Minister and his dedicated team were praised for their relentless efforts, exceptional leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the mining sector noting that their hard work was seen as instrumental in securing a brighter and more sustainable future for Nigeria and its citizens.
The warm messages further reiterated steadfast support for the Ministry’s vision and its ongoing pursuit of excellence in cultivating a thriving, dynamic mining industry.