Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to sustainable and efficient harnessing of mineral resources to drive economic growth and create prosperity for citizens.
Giving his opening remarks as chief host of the second Africa Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS), with the theme, ‘Towards a Just Transition’, the minister underscored the essence of collaboration to diversify the nation’s energy sources, promote renewable energy and implement energy efficiency measures.
His words: “At the heart of this summit, we find the idea of a ‘Just Transition’. This concept calls for us to ensure that as we shift towards more sustainable practices in natural resource development and energy production, no one is left behind. The just transition is about recognising the needs of our workforce, communities and economies that have long depended on traditional energy sources to establish and consolidate the forces of fostering inclusivity, providing alternatives, and equitably distributing the benefits of this transformation.
“The just transition demands that we address the social and economic challenges that may arise from shifting away from traditional energy sources. We must invest in workforce re-training, creating alternative employment opportunities, and supporting impacted communities. Africa must adopt policies that provide a safety net for those who might be negatively affected by this transition.”
Hinting about the development of a policy framework for effective and efficient management of identified transition minerals, Alake stressed that the Federal Government recognised the global shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies, hence its resolve for responsible management of critical minerals towards cleaner energy systems, reduction of carbon emissions and global fight against climate change.
In his keynote address, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, declared that Nigeria is open for business, restating the zeal of the current administration to explore the nation’s mineral resources in collaboration with genuine partners.
He identified job creation, sanitising the mining sector, establishing an industrial sector, and addressing challenges facing the mining sector as priority areas of his administration.
Reading the riot act to those hitherto short-changing the country through illegal mining and other sharp practices, the President vowed to punish economic saboteurs.
