Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Miners Association of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing economic diversification through a significant investment in the solid minerals sector in the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
The association, led by Chairman Engr. Iyakise Udofia, expressed its appreciation in a statement, following a working visit to Abuja. The 2025 Bill, which allocates N1 trillion to the solid minerals industry, represents 1.82% of Nigeria’s total N54.9 trillion budget.
Udofia highlighted the impact of the funding, emphasizing its potential to drive mineral exploration, processing, and commercialization in Akwa Ibom State and across Nigeria.
He said, “As a state rich in mineral resources, this investment will significantly enhance exploration, processing, and commercialization of Nigeria’s mineral resources. It will unlock the full potential of the solid minerals industry, create jobs, and foster economic growth.”
Udofia also extended gratitude to key policymakers who played a role in securing the funding, including, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake; and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Ekong Sampson.
“Their collective efforts have been instrumental in ensuring the solid minerals sector receives the necessary funding to thrive,” he added.
Reaffirming the association’s dedication to sustainable mining practices, Udofia assured that the industry remains committed to national development and will collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the investment delivers meaningful impact.
“As miners, we remain committed to responsible mining practices and contributing to national development. We will continue working with stakeholders to ensure that this investment yields the desired results,” he concluded.
The group further notes that with the N1 trillion allocation, Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is set for significant expansion and economic diversification.
