Ukorebi Esien | August 25, 2025
CALABAR, – Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce, Paul Effiong, has called for greater synergy among industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to reposition Nigeria's solid minerals sector for sustainable growth and reforms.
Speaking at the NOVUM Expo 2025 on Sustainable Ways of Harnessing the Mineralization of the Lower Benue Trough, Effiong stressed that collaboration is key to attracting investors, curbing illegal mining, and creating opportunities for artisanal miners to transition into the formal sector.
"From our field experience and the lectures we've received here, we will work to attract investors and integrate artisanal miners into the mainstream mining sector rather than driving them away. With synergy and collaboration, we can transform the sector into a hub for growth and reforms," he stated.
Other participants at the Expo, including lawmakers, government officials, and investors, echoed similar concerns about the need for inclusivity, accountability, and host community welfare.
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals, who led the delegation of lawmakers to the Expo, revealed that several bills are before the Committee, including a proposal to repeal the 2007 Minerals Act and enact the 2023 Minerals Act. He noted that the reforms would strengthen regulation and ensure host communities are not left behind in Nigeria's mineral development drive.
Representatives of the Minister of Mineral Resources also highlighted government interventions. The Minister's representative disclosed that measures are in place to halt the exportation of raw mineral ores while aggressively promoting local processing, beneficiation, and value chain development.
"This will drive job creation, increase revenue retention, and spur industrialization," the representative said.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Cross River State House of Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Effiong Ekarika, warned against neglecting local residents and the environment in the pursuit of GDP growth. He emphasized the constitutional obligation of the state to ensure equal access to livelihood and employment opportunities, citing Sections 42 and 17(3a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
"Nobody should exploit our resources while neglecting our states. Mining development must align with citizens' rights to livelihood and environmental protection," Ekarika noted.
The Novum Expo 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders, who reached a consensus that Nigeria's solid minerals sector must be developed in ways that protect local livelihoods, promote transparency, and strengthen regulatory frameworks.
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