Ekiti to contribute immensely to mining sector development in Nigeria –Minister

*Dr. Oladele Alake, Minister for Solid Minerals Development, says Ekiti State, will contribute significantly to the Federal Government’s efforts at making solid minerals a major revenue earner for Nigeria

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Citing the preponderance of natural resources, including solid minerals in Ekiti State of Nigeria, Dr. Oladele Alake, Honourable Minister for Solid Minerals Development, has said the South-Western state will contribute significantly to the Federal Government’s quest to make solid minerals a major revenue earner for the country.

Segun Tomori, Special Assistant to the Minister for Solid Minerals Development on Media, Monday, November 20, 2023, stated Dr. Alake said this while playing host to Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State in his office.

The Minister reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to partnering with states to reform the mining sector with a view to ensuring maximum benefits for host communities and accruable revenue for government.

In his remarks, Gov. Oyebanji also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Alake, an illustrious son of Ekiti, as the helmsman of the Solid Minerals Ministry.

The Ekiti State Governor asserted the Minister is the state’s “best choice” that has been using his vantage position to advance the cause of Ekiti people.

The statement noted Mr. Oyebanji emphasised the imperative of collaborating with the Federal Government on mining sector reforms for economic development of federating units.

The governor further stated: “The other reason why I came (to Abuja) is to discuss how Ekiti can partner with the Minister to ensure that we key into his vision.

“It is in the interest of states to collaborate because it is a win-win situation.”

He said: “Any discerning state that want to develop their domain must key into the mining sector.

“I see a lot of opportunities for sub-nationals. He is trying to democratise the space, and it will create wealth. It will create jobs, and it will increase security.”

Governor Oyebanji stated: “So, I don’t see how any state will not partner with the ministry because solid minerals is the new oil.”