President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to both private companies and public servants involved in fraudulent practices within the solid minerals sector. Speaking at the second edition of the Africa Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja on Tuesday, President Tinubu emphasized the government’s commitment to cracking down on economic saboteurs who hinder the ease of doing business and impede efforts to transform the sector.
The president, represented by the Secretary to the Federal Government, George Akume, pointed out that the government welcomes legitimate investors who share the administration’s vision. However, those who engage in corrupt practices will face the full force of the law. Tinubu also highlighted the appointment of Minister of Solid Minerals, Oladele Alake, as a testament to the government’s determination to sanitize the sector.
Speaking on the conference theme, ‘Towards a Just Transition’, Tinubu stressed the importance of utilizing the country’s natural resources for the development of its people. He urged governors to collaborate with the Federal Government to increase the mining sector’s contribution to the economy, while cautioning them against interference in the activities of licensed operators.
In line with the summit’s focus on sustainability, Minister Oladele Alake called for a shift towards more environmentally-friendly practices in harnessing Nigeria’s natural resources. He emphasized the concept of a ‘Just Transition’, which entails ensuring that as the country moves towards sustainable practices in resource development and energy production, no one is left behind.
“The just transition demands that we address the social and economic challenges that may arise from shifting away from traditional energy sources,” stated Alake. He further emphasized the need for workforce re-training, the creation of alternative employment opportunities, and the provision of a safety net for communities affected by the transition.
President Tinubu’s warning serves as a clarion call for all stakeholders within Nigeria’s mining sector to operate with integrity and in line with the country’s vision for sustainable development. The government’s commitment to punishing economic saboteurs and fostering inclusivity in the sector will undoubtedly contribute to the transformation of Nigeria’s economy.
