In a remarkable endorsement of local talent utilization within Nigeria’s burgeoning mining sector, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has publicly commended Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL) for its significant contribution to the national workforce. The company’s strategic focus on employing an overwhelmingly Nigerian staff has set a commendable benchmark in the industry, particularly noted during Alake’s insightful visit to the SROL site in Ilesha, Osun State.
A Vision for Economic Diversification and Sectoral Growth
Embedded in a broader agenda to revitalise Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, Alake’s commendation aligns with the federal government’s ambition to diversify the economy away from its traditional reliance on oil. This vision includes harnessing the untapped potential within the mining sector to contribute substantially to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The minister’s 7-point agenda aims at repositioning mining as a cornerstone of economic development, with local content and security at its core.
Unveiling the Success of Segilola Resources
The site tour offered a platform for the Minister to assess firsthand the strides made by Segilola Resources in operational excellence and community engagement. Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Segun Tomori, captured Alake’s sentiments in a statement highlighting the company’s dedication to surmounting initial challenges and its unwavering commitment to local content.
Alake was particularly impressed by the fact that 95% of SROL’s workforce comprises Nigerians, underscoring the project as a paragon of national pride and a model for potential investors, both local and international. This staffing strategy not only fosters local talent development but also significantly contributes to job creation within the host community and beyond.
Strengthening Sectoral Security and Community Ties
Further elaborating on his 7-point agenda, Alake noted the strides made in enhancing the security landscape of Nigeria’s mining environment. The introduction of a mines marshal initiative signifies a pivotal shift towards securing mining operations and has been instrumental in curbing the activities of illegal miners across the country.
Moreover, the minister lauded SROL for its outstanding efforts in community development, notably exceeding its targets. Such initiatives forge stronger bonds with host communities, ensuring a seamless integration of mining activities within the local socioeconomic fabric.
Federal Support and Future Collaborations
Acknowledging the exemplary role of Segilola Resources in promoting local content and community development, Alake pledged the Federal Government’s unwavering support for the company. This backing is crucial as SROL seeks to expand its operations and further contribute to Nigeria’s GDP and economic diversification efforts.
During the visit, Segun Lawson, CEO of Segilola Resources, presented the company as a testament to Nigerian ingenuity and resourcefulness, highlighting its significant achievements. In 2023 alone, the company produced over 84,609 ounces of gold, with a substantial portion of its operations and procurement sourced locally. This not only underscores SROL’s economic contribution but also its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
A New Chapter in Nigeria’s Mining Sector
The collaborative spirit between the government and private entities like Segilola Resources marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s mining sector. As the country continues to navigate its way towards economic stability and growth, partnerships that prioritize local content, security, and community engagement will be instrumental. Dr. Alake’s visit to the SROL mining site is a significant milestone, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for the sector’s growth and the pivotal role of mining in Nigeria’s economic development narrative.
