Minister of State for Mines and Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogan says all the tiers of government must partner and work together within the context of the provisions of the extant mining laws to unlock the minerals sector potentials and grow it to optimal level.

He stated this during a courtesy visit to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state at Governor’s office Ibadan as part of his a-day working visit for the 56th annual international Conference and exhibition of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, NMGS.

Dr. Ogan said the collaboration would encouraged state government participation in mining activities using Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which the State can establish, invest and undertake mining activities in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011.

The minister of state for Mines and Steel Development also said the synergy would fight illegal mining and smuggling of mineral commodities and also provide job opportunities for the teeming youths.

He re-echoed the Federal Government’s determination in implementing policies aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy away from dependence on Oil to Mining and Agriculture through Mining. 

Dr. Ogan said with support of government and other stakeholders, the Oyo state could be transformed into a physically functional, economically vibrant, socially harmonious and most preferred sub-national mining destination in Nigeria. 

He appreciated Oyo state government for the donation of two hectares of land for gemstone market pointing out that the development showed commitment in enhancing the development of the solid minerals sector and increase the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR of the State.

In a remark, Governor Seyi Makinde acknowledged that the mineral resources if well harnessed would improve the revenue of the country .

Governor Makinde said the state was ready to support national aspiration on development which he said necessitated provision of two hectares of land for the gemstone market in Akinyele area of the state.

The governor therefore solicited the support of the federal ministry of mines and steel in hasten the building of the gemstone market in Akinyele, Ibadan with a view to improving the revenue of the state and the entire south west.

Iyabo Adebisi

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