The Federal Government, via the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, took immediate action on Wednesday by establishing a 10-member committee to initiate large-scale production of salt and kaolin. This step is crucial as the government is committed to diversifying the economy through the solid minerals sector.
As per a statement by Alaba Balogun, the Head of Press and Public Relations, at the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development/Steel Development, emphasized that the initiative to explore and exploit salt and kaolin resonates with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu-led administration. The goal is to enhance domestic usage, promote exports, and create more job opportunities.
The committee’s tasks include: assessing the extent and locations of brine, rock salt, and kaolin deposits in Nigeria; evaluating the number and feasibility of licenses issued for mineral exploration and exploitation; determining the exploration costs to ascertain the quantity of brine, rock salts, and kaolin available if not previously determined.
Furthermore, the committee is mandated to propose a strategic plan for establishing salt and kaolin processing plants within a specified timeframe in Nigeria and provide additional recommendations to proactively develop the sector.
She said: ”In order to change the narrative and kick start the development of our nation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, with his Renewed Hope Agenda has challenged us to believe in our country and develop it as we do not have another country.
”It is this consideration that is behind the strong desire of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Oladele Alake to develop the exploration exploitation and processing of salt and Kaolin in Nigeria for Nigeria’s use and subsequent export. This will provide jobs for Nigerians, conserve foreign exchange and boost our economy.”
The committee was tasked with a 15-day deadline to submit its report due to the urgent nature of the assignment.
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