Reps Push for Solid Minerals Development To Diversify Economy
•By Admin
ABUJA – THE Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, has emphasized that Nigeria’s solid minerals sector remains critical to building a robust and diversified economy, capable of reducing dependence on oil revenues.
Speaking on Thursday at a public hearing on 12 bills targeted at reforming and repositioning the sector, the Speaker, represented by Hon. Mark Oseni, stated that harnessing the nation’s mineral resources is not a matter of choice but a necessity for achieving a resilient and inclusive economy.
He noted that the hearing goes beyond a routine legislative procedure, describing it as a cornerstone of democratic governance that allows for broad-based public engagement and the integration of diverse perspectives in shaping policies for the sector.
“For decades, our economy has depended heavily on a single commodity. These bills mark a deliberate shift in our economic agenda,” Abbas said. “They seek to address fundamental challenges through legal reforms, institutional strengthening, improved funding, and human capital development. Together, they represent our resolve to responsibly unlock the vast mineral wealth of our country.”
He further stressed that the quality of contributions from stakeholders will determine the effectiveness of the legislative process, urging them to provide constructive input to help refine the bills into comprehensive laws that truly advance national interests.
Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, said the exercise was both a constitutional responsibility and a strategic move to transform the sector into a key driver of economic growth.
“The solid minerals sector holds immense potential for job creation, revenue generation, and industrial development,” Gbefwi said. “Unfortunately, outdated laws, weak institutions, and inadequate funding have left this potential untapped for too long. Our task is to change that trajectory by providing a stronger legislative foundation.”
He added that the public hearing offers an inclusive platform for government agencies, industry operators, host communities, academics, and civil society to contribute knowledge and ideas. According to him, the Committee remains committed to ensuring a participatory process that reflects the aspirations of all stakeholders.
•INDEPENDENTNG.