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FG Proposes Mining Center Of Excellence, Inaugurate Committee Members

Published

3 years ago

February 16, 2024

Joel Ajayi

In continuation of its efforts to reposition and ensure the mining sector contribute maximally to the growth of the nation’s economy, the Federal Government will establish the Nigerian Mining Centre of Excellence ( CoE) as a one stop -shop that will meet the needs of investors in the solid Minerals sector.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development/Steel Development, Dr Mrs Mary Ogbe disclosed this today during the inauguration of members of the Committee for the Establishment of the Nigerian Mining Centre of Excellence (CoE), at the Ministry’s Headquarters Office in Abuja.

Speaking on the importance of establishing the Center of Excellence, Dr Ogbe explained that it is Pivotal in numerous ways to the actualisation of the Ministry’s conttibution to the growth of the Nigerian economy; as it will foster collaborations among the key departments of the Ministry.

Elaborating further on the objectives for creating the Mining Centre of Excellence; the Permanent Secretary said: ” The Centre is established to provide a one-stop that will meet the needs of investors in the solid mineral sector of the economy, facilitate the efficient use of the Decision Support System ( DSS) and promote knowledge – sharing best practices and capacity building within the mining sector”.

Continuing, Dr Ogbe expressed optimism on the actualization of the mandate of the CoE to act as a focal point for international partnerships and collaboration in the field of mining investment amongst other laudable objectives.

To this end, she stated that the Honorable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake has assured that he is willing and ready to support the activities of the CoE with everything it needs to actualize its mandate.

The Nigerian Mining Centre of Excellence CoE , according to Dr Ogbe, will foster collaborations among the key departments of the Ministry which include Nigerian Geological Survey Agency NGSA, Mining Cadastre Office MCO, Mines Inspectorate, Office of the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Ministry of Steel Development and Office of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

Membership of the Committee includes nominated members of the various Departments and Agencies of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development; and will be chaired by the Director of Investment Promotion and Minerals Trade Department of the Ministry.

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Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran

Published

15 hours ago

October 1, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.

In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.

The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

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