The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) recently held its 60th Annual Conference and Exhibitions at Chida International Hotel, Abuja.

The theme of this year’s conference is: Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water and Construction Sectors through Innovations.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Mele Kolo Kyari, in a keynote address, noted that the geoscience industry is the backbone of any nation, which will continue to be relevant to our country and economy. He said that the mining and geoscience sector is not only vital  to Nigeria’s industrial transformation but also boosts national security.

Dr. Kyari lamented that due to over growing population and economic disparities which Nigeria faces, there is need to address the controversies surrounding petroleum and energy sector. He stated that the expansion of renewable energy projects, particularly solar mini-grids has improved access to electricity in rural areas, which in turn addresses energy while reducing reliance on diesel generators and costs.

According to him, investments in natural gas infrastructure have enhanced energy security by utilising Nigeria’s abundant gas reserves as a transitional fuel, quoting that in reality, 90% of our daily activities involves petroleum.

Dr Kyari further emphasised that Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is faced with fluctuating global oil prices, and that is where the role of innovation becomes paramount in transforming the sector and ensuring its resilience.

Also speaking, the President, Miners Association of Nigeria, Engr. Dele Ayanleke, stated that the Nigerian mining sector is at its peak, where embracing innovation can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. He opined that the policy is geared towards job creation in the mining sector, industrialisation and expansion of existing industries with a view to further enhance competitive advantage.

Engr. Ayanleke noted that unfortunately, government investment in the mining sector is increasingly becoming a mechanism to drive the downstream policy which has to do with corrupt practices. He ia also of the opinion that for the mining sector to succeed, there is a need for collaboration that would lead to infrastructure, energy and human capacity development.

In a goodwill message, the President of Nigeria Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Mr Johnbosco Uche highlighted that NAPE being the largest professional association of Petroleum Geologists and related upstream disciplines in Nigeria, is committed to exposing its members to current developments in the field of oil and gas exploration and development, including technological advancement and business processes.

He emphasised that their goal is reflected in both their current and growth plans, all of which are grounded in principles of safety, affordability and competitive performance.

Mr Uche assured that because of the strong partnership between NAPE and NMGS, human capital development is very critical and therefore hoped that the conference will prepare them towards a more profitable and prosperous future.

The Director General of Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, Prof. Olusegun O. Ige, in his speech, hinted that the conference, which is a yearly event, is an avenue for them to share ideas and look for the way forward. He noted that his agency provides the geoscientific information that will enhance investment that is worthy of attracting investors into the country, and as a way of improving the country’s GDP.

Prof. Ige mentioned that the mining sector should be able to create an avenue for job creations, employment stability and the need for industrial growth. He further commended the efforts of Anambra State Government in setting up the Anambra State Solid Minerals headed by a geoscientist.

The conference also featured the conferment of Honorary Fellowship Awards on deserving Nigerians, including some state governors, of which the MD/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited, Prof.Charles O.Ofoegbu, received the award on behalf of the Anambra State Governor, Prof.Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for his outstanding performance in reforming the mining and gas sector of the state, and his commitment to the overall development of Anambra State.

Anambra State, during the exhibition, showcased her rich solid mineral resources which attracted people from all walks of life as they trooped in to make inquiries about the state’s mineral resources which includes Kaolin, Bentonite, Gravel pack, Lignite, among others.

Goodwill messages from the security agencies, corporate bodies, roundtable business discussions, and group photographs formed the high points of the event.