The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Ondo State, Engr. Razaq Obe has said that through prioritizing the development of transportation networks , energy infrastructure and facilities to support energy and mineral resources the governments at all levels can strengthen the economy of the nation. He stated this while delivering the 11th Annual lecture of the School of Earth and Mineral Sciences (SEMS) of the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA on the 13th of September 2024.
Speaking on the theme; “Harnessing Energy and Mineral Resources for sustained economic growth and inclusive development in Nigeria,” the Commissioner said by adopting the right strategies and policies, the country can transform the energy and mineral resources into engines of prosperity through diversification of the economy, value addition and industrialization, development of renewable energy, formalizing and supporting artisanal and small scale mining and strengthening governance and transparency.
The Commissioner pointed out that diversifying the economy by developing the solid minerals sector and renewable energy sources is crucial for ensuring sustainable growth. He said ” the mining of minerals such as gold, lithium and rare earth minerals can become new revenue streams, while renewable energy development can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. Rather than exporting crude oil and unprocessed minerals, Nigeria should invest in refining petrochemicals and mineral processing industries. This approach will create jobs, stimulate local industries, and reduce the country’s import dependence”.
Engr Obe stressed the need for good governance and transparency which according to him are essential for the effective management of Nigeria’s energy and mineral resources. He said,” strengthening institutions, enforcing regulations, and promoting community participation in decision making processes are critical for achieving inclusive development “.The Commissioner stated that government must as a matter of urgency invest in critical infrastructure while prioritizing policy reforms that can create an enabling environment for investment and growth in the energy and mineral sectors.
In her address the Vice Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Professor Taiwo Amos said” the economic growth and development of a nation is often a function of its use of energy, with countries experiencing higher standards of living generally having a higher level of energy consumption per capita . Mineral resources play very significant roles in the affairs of the world. They first have to be explored and extracted; and the proceeds have also to be used prudently before they can affect lives positively “.
She commended the Dean for sustaining the culture of the annual lecture adding that” apart from generation of fresh ideas through intellectual interactions, the external resource persons as guest lecturers further strengthens the bond between town and gown “.
The Dean, SEMS, Professor Yekini Anifowose said the School has continued to keep pace with development in its core areas through finetuning of its programmes and relevant research. According to him, ” over the years, academic programmes in the school have undergone reviewing and updating to reflect emerging global trends in the earth sciences and our products have been occupying top positions in the oil and gas industry, contributing their quota to the development of the economy and education. Alumni and staff will continually work together to ensure that the School achieves its goals”.
