Tap into potential of gold mining to create sustainable jobs, NSE tells govt

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

The President and Chairman-in-Council of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, has emphasized that the mining sector could significantly reduce Nigeria’s overdependence on oil while creating sustainable employment opportunities.

Speaking at the fourth Distinguished Lecture and inauguration of the new executive committee of the NSE in Ilesa, Osun State, yesterday, Oguntala, represented by Oluwaseun Adeyeye, stated that economic diversification is critical for Nigeria, with mining serving as a viable alternative to oil.

“Nigeria is in a crucial phase of economic diversification. The mining sector has emerged as a fundamental pillar capable of supporting national development, reducing reliance on oil, and creating sustainable jobs. For this sector to thrive, engineering must be integral, ensuring efficiency, safety, environmental responsibility, and technological advancement.”

Oguntala urged the government to tap into the potential of gold mining and emphasized the importance of security for the sector’s success.

“Our government should encourage diversification into gold mining. Security is crucial in this industry; without it, we face issues like kidnapping and violence.”  Olusola Olusomidomo, the deputy manager of Segilola Resources Operating Ltd, who served as the guest lecturer, called on the government to introduce favorable laws for the mining sector.

“One area where the government can support mining is by helping investors to navigate frameworks, laws, and structures. The government should seek to amend these laws to be more favorable to investors,” he suggested. Olusomidomo also highlighted the need to transition from irresponsible mining practices that harm the environment to sustainable mining operations.

“We must move away from irresponsible mining that degrades the environment; otherwise, it creates a negative impression on potential investors in the country,” he asserted.

The new NSE chairman, Chukwuma Ugah, pledged to prioritize the welfare of members through partnerships with companies to enhance service engagement.