Renewed Hope Agenda: Harnessing Nigeria’s Mineral Wealth for Sustainable Growth
The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) commends the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its visionary reforms and strategic policy direction under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which is breaking new frontiers in Nigeria’s mineral exploration and resource development.
Redefining Nigeria’s Economic Future
For decades, Nigeria’s economy was overly dependent on oil revenue, leaving vast mineral resources untapped. President Tinubu’s government has now reversed that trend through a comprehensive blueprint that prioritizes diversification, transparency, and value addition in the solid minerals sector.
Key Policy Interventions Driving Mineral Exploration
The APC-led federal government has launched and implemented several groundbreaking initiatives that are rapidly transforming the mining landscape:
1. The Nigerian Mineral Resource Strategy (2024–2033):
A 10-year master plan designed to create an investment-friendly environment, improve geological data, and ensure community participation in mining operations.
2. Establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Company (NSMDC):
This state-backed enterprise now serves as a strategic partner with private investors for exploration, processing, and exportation of mineral resources.
3. Creation of the Mineral Resource and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) across all states:
Aimed at resolving community disputes, ensuring environmental compliance, and securing host communities’ benefits.
4. Mining Marshals Initiative:
A special security outfit under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to curb illegal mining and protect legitimate investors.
5. Incentives and Regulatory Reforms:
The government introduced tax holidays, duty waivers for mining equipment, and 100% repatriation of profits to encourage both local and foreign investment. The streamlined digital Mining Cadastre Office now provides transparent licensing and real-time tracking of applications – a reform that has drastically improved investor confidence.
Foreign Direct Investments Attracted
The policy environment fostered by the Renewed Hope Agenda has yielded unprecedented levels of international partnership and capital inflow into Nigeria’s mining sector:
• The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA):
Recently pledged over $500 million in strategic investments for lithium and gold exploration projects in Nasarawa and Kaduna States, with a focus on renewable energy-driven processing plants.
• The Ogunlesi Group / Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP):
Partnering with Nigerian firms for large-scale granite and industrial mineral projects in Ogun and Kogi States, with downstream plans for cement and ceramics industries.
• Chinese and Australian Consortiums:
Over $1.2 billion worth of Memoranda of Understanding signed for lithium, zinc, and rare earth element exploration in Plateau, Kebbi, and Cross River States.
• Canadian-Nigerian Joint Venture in Niger State:
Currently developing gold refining and processing facilities projected to generate 5,000 direct jobs and export earnings in excess of $250 million annually.
Sustainability and Value Addition
The administration’s policy now emphasizes beneficiation and local processing, ensuring Nigeria no longer exports raw minerals but finished products that create jobs and enhance national value chains. Additionally, the government is deepening collaboration with the African Finance Corporation (AFC) and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to finance infrastructure that supports the mining ecosystem – from rail transport to industrial clusters.
Lagos APC’s Commendation
The Lagos State Chapter of the APC commends President Tinubu and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, for redefining mining as a pillar of Nigeria’s future prosperity. The Renewed Hope Agenda has brought structure, accountability, and global recognition to a sector long neglected but now thriving under competent, reform-driven leadership.
Conclusion
Nigeria is now on the threshold of a new industrial revolution – one powered by knowledge, technology, and the responsible exploitation of its mineral wealth. The Lagos APC affirms its unwavering support for these transformative efforts, confident that President Tinubu’s visionary leadership will ensure that every Nigerian benefits from the nation’s abundant natural resources.
Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo
Lagos APC Spokesman
03/11/25
