Speaking at the current BusinessDay Solid Minerals conference in Abuja under the theme “Digging deeper: Diversifying Nigeria’s Economy for Wealth Creation,” Frank Aigbogun pointed out that the country’s reliance on crude oil must decrease in order for the solid minerals sector to prosper.
The publisher continued by saying that in order to combat the threat of illicit mining, which has up to now prevented the industry from making a significant financial contribution to the country, the Federal Government must also show strong political resolve.
According to him, a secured and conducive environment will entice investors lure investors into the industry, especially to places were such resources abound.
“These are areas that are full of potentials, let me tell you, in those days, you can go in there and mine, even if you are alone, nobody will attack you,” Aigbogun stated. “If government is to derive revenue from those resources, it has to take security seriously in order to protect the people and their investments, and to attract more investors to come into mining.”
He also stated that “in order to find solace for the economy of Nigeria, we must begin to think towards harnessing the great potentials in the solid minerals sector to boost the nation’s economy.” We engage between government and private sector in a period of solid minerals to deliver huge results that we see around the world.”
“We have individuals assisting with transactions, and naturally, there are others observing to make sure that, as Nigeria’s mining and solid mineral sectors develop and grow and prepare for substantial foreign investment, we are also taking care of the people and communities that serve as host communities for many of the minerals we are discussing.”
“I have no doubts at all, especially considering the enormous potential in the solid minerals sector—both the ones we have already seen and the ones I think will be found in the coming months and years.”
Additionally, he conveyed his faith in the administration headed by President Bola Tinubu and Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dele Alake.