Miners under the aegis of
Mining Association of Nigeria, MAN, have resolved to create about 300, 000 jobs
in the sector. This was disclosed by the Chairman, MAN, Alhaji Sani Shehu, at a
news conference with theme: “Mining is the Answer,” where he said that the
association has also developed a five-year Strategic Development Plan, SDP, for
the mining sector.
Enugu_miningHe said the SDP
will help create as well as contribute up to 10 per cent to the nation’s Gross
Domestic Product, GDP. He said Nigeria has at least 33 viable solid minerals
deposits, all of which contribute less than one percent to the GDP as compared
to 10 percent generated from the sector before oil was discovered.
Shehu said: “The solid minerals
industry is witnessing a renaissance and its relevance to Nigerian economy can
no longer be downplayed, especially at a time when critical, diverse
investments are needed to enhance the economic empowerment of our people.
“The Miners Association of
Nigeria, MAN, has developed a five-year Strategic Development Plan for the
mining sector which would create 300,000 jobs annually as well as contribute 10
per cent to the GDP. “The vast occurrences of solid mineral resources in each
state of the federation are yet to be accorded due attention; collective and
affirmative action is desired in order to fully exploit the enormous prospects
that exist.
“South Africa, which is less
endowed than Nigeria in this regard, depends on solid minerals exploitation for
18 per cent of its GDP and has created over one million jobs.” The MAN boss
also recalled measures taken by the former administration to reform the mining
industry by creating institutions which provided a platform for the sector in
line with industrial best practices.
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