The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has hinted at an impending forensic audit of the mining sector as part of efforts to sanitize the industry and boost investor confidence.

In an attempt to purify the mining sector and boost investor confidence, Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has alluded to an upcoming forensic audit. As part of initiatives to purify the mining sector and boost investor’s confidence, Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has alluded to an upcoming forensic audit of the mining sector.

The Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Segun Tomori, released a statement on Thursday, 15 August 2024, stating that Dr. Alake emphasized in a meeting with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Wednesday that ongoing reforms will result in the implementation of technology-driven mechanisms meant to improve the Federal Government’s regulatory framework.

“I can disclose that we are planning to start a forensic audit of the whole industry. As directed by Mr. President, we are working on satellite imaging in conjunction with the Ministry of Science and Technology. This will support our ability to effectively secure the mining environment by helping to monitor actions at mining sites,” according to Dr. Alake.

Stressing the significance of Plateau State in the Federal Government’s strategy to grow the mining industry, Dr. Alake asked Governor Mutfwang to work with him to address the issue of abandoned mining pits, which he said are remnants of the colonial past, and to fully utilize the solid mineral potential.

“Our goal is to establish a fund for environmental protection and rehabilitation so that remediation activities can have access to a pool of funds. This includes burying or repurposing abandoned pits which endanger our people and communities for beneficial purposes like irrigation, the Minister continued.”

Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, appreciated the Minister’s passion and excitement for the industry after he took office. He was upbeat that Nigeria will realize the great potential of solid minerals under Dr. Alake’s direction and greatly increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

In regards to mining site security, the Governor commended the mining marshals for their early successes and urged the Minister to ensure they are properly integrated into the State’s Security Network to be aware of their activities.
To solve the problem of abandoned mining pits in the State, Governor Mutfwang also pushed for updated data on the mining industry, an improved regulatory framework, and federal backing.

“We intend to utilize the Federal Government’s ecological funds to address these abandoned sites by working in conjunction with the ministry. Governor Mutfwang emphasized that this is not only important for health but may also have economic significance.”

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