APC Hails President Tinubu’s Reforms in Solid Minerals Sector

President Bola Tinubu

The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has applauded President Bola Tinubu for what it described as transformative reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which are repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector as a key driver of sustainable growth.

In a statement signed by the party’s spokesman, Hon. Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC said President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated visionary leadership by diversifying the economy and unlocking Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth after decades of overreliance on oil revenue.

According to the statement titled “Renewed Hope Agenda: Harnessing Nigeria’s Mineral Wealth for Sustainable Growth,” the party said the federal government’s new policy direction has brought structure, accountability, and global attention to the mining industry.

Highlighting some of the major reforms, the APC noted the implementation of the Nigerian Mineral Resource Strategy (2024–2033), which provides a 10-year master plan for investment, data improvement, and community inclusion; the creation of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Company (NSMDC) to partner with investors in exploration and processing; and the establishment of Mineral Resource and Environmental Management Committees (MIREMCO) in all states to address disputes and ensure environmental compliance.

The statement also cited the launch of the Mining Marshals Initiative under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to combat illegal mining, as well as new fiscal incentives, including tax holidays and duty waivers for mining equipment, aimed at boosting investor confidence.

According to the Lagos APC, these reforms have already attracted significant foreign direct investments, including $500 million from the Qatar Investment Authority for lithium and gold exploration in Nasarawa and Kaduna States; $1.2 billion in MoUs with Chinese and Australian consortiums for rare earth elements in Plateau, Kebbi, and Cross River States; and a Canadian-Nigerian joint venture in Niger State developing gold processing facilities projected to generate 5,000 jobs.

Oladejo added that the Tinubu administration’s emphasis on local processing and value addition ensures that Nigeria will no longer export raw minerals but finished products that expand value chains and create jobs.

He further commended the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, for his leadership in redefining mining as a cornerstone of national development and for pursuing policies that align with global best practices in environmental and social sustainability.

“With the Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria is on the threshold of a new industrial revolution driven by technology, knowledge, and the responsible exploitation of its mineral wealth,” the statement said.

“The Lagos APC expresses confidence that President Tinubu’s visionary leadership will ensure every Nigerian benefits from the nation’s abundant natural resources.”