Federal Government has beckoned all the State Governments to form mining companies and apply for operational licenses.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake gave the charge during the monthly meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, on recent policies, institutional and operational reforms being undertaken by the Ministry in harnessing the mining potentials of the country.
As contained in the communiqué issued and signed by the NGF Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), deliberated on various issues of national importance.
“Members received a briefing from the Honorable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, on recent policies, institutional and operational reforms undertaken by the ministry in harnessing the mining potentials of the country.
“He sought the cooperation of State Governments in his drive to create an enabling business environment for investors, support artisanal and small-scale mining cooperatives, address illegal mining, and de-risk the sector.
“The Minister encouraged State Governments to form mining companies and apply for mining licenses.
“The Forum welcomed the reforms, however, advocated for stronger intergovernmental relations in coordinating the activities of the sector from licensing, surveillance to operational safeguards.
“The Forum received briefing from Dr. Ahmad Abdulwahab, NGF Senior Health Advisor, on States’ progress with expanding health insurance coverage and their performance on nutrition as well as the Primary Healthcare (PHC) Leadership Challenge.
“He also informed members about the roll-out of Phase II of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination exercise in 21 States starting 27th May 2024.
“Members committed to ramping up effort at achieving the necessary improvements advocated,” the communique read.
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