The Federal Government has been urged to adequately fund and invest in the solid minerals sector for the rapid development of the industry
and for economic growth of the nation.
The President of the Nigerian Society of Mining Engineers, Dr Umar Hassan gave the advice while addressing newsmen in Minna, Niger State before the opening of the 24th Annual General Meeting and International Conference of the Society.
The main theme of the Conference is “Sustainable Mining Practices As Crucial Support to Nigeria’s Transition to Green Energy Source.
Similarly, the convergence of the Mining Engineers in Minna is expected to provide a solution to unsafe minerals processing techniques and mines collapse for the safety of human life and that of the environment.
The President of the Society identified inadequate funding, shortage of manpower and equipment as factors militating against rapid and sustainable development of the mining sector in Nigeria.
Dr Hassan underscored the need for artisans in the mining sector to form cooperative groups to help legalise their activities and business.
Cov: Aliyu Lawal