What nigeria is missing by neglect of solid mineral sector babatunde alatise

Babatunde Alatise, a Nigerian geologist and expert in the solid mineral sector, has written an article highlighting the neglect of the solid mineral sector in Nigeria and the consequences of this neglect. Here are some of the key points he makes:

1. Loss of Revenue: Nigeria is missing out on significant revenue from the solid mineral sector. According to Alatise, the sector has the potential to generate over $10 billion annually, but due to neglect, the country is only generating a fraction of this amount.
2. Unemployment: The neglect of the solid mineral sector has led to high levels of unemployment in the country. Alatise estimates that the sector has the potential to create over 1 million jobs, but due to lack of investment and development, many Nigerians are left without employment opportunities.
3. Underdevelopment: The solid mineral sector is a key driver of economic development, but Nigeria's neglect of the sector has led to underdevelopment in many parts of the country. Alatise argues that the sector has the potential to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and increase access to basic amenities like healthcare and education.
4. Insecurity: The neglect of the solid mineral sector has also contributed to insecurity in some parts of the country. Alatise notes that illegal mining activities have led to conflicts between miners and local communities, and that the lack of regulation and oversight has created an environment conducive to illegal activities.
5. Waste of Natural Resources: Nigeria is endowed with vast natural resources, including iron ore, coal, tin, and gold, among others. However, due to neglect, these resources are being wasted, and the country is failing to benefit from them.
6. Lack of Infrastructure: The solid mineral sector requires significant investment in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports. However, the lack of investment in these areas has hindered the development of the sector and made it difficult to transport minerals to markets.
7. Corruption: Alatise also highlights the role of corruption in the neglect of the solid mineral sector. He argues that corruption has led to the mismanagement of funds allocated to the sector, and that it has created an environment in which illegal activities can thrive.
8. Inadequate Regulation: The lack of effective regulation and oversight has also contributed to the neglect of the solid mineral sector. Alatise argues that the sector requires a robust regulatory framework to ensure that mining activities are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
9. Lack of Research and Development: The solid mineral sector requires significant investment in research and development to improve mining technologies and increase efficiency. However, the lack of investment in R&D has hindered the development of the sector and made it difficult to improve mining practices.
10. Missed Opportunities: Finally, Alatise highlights the missed opportunities that Nigeria has missed by neglecting the solid mineral sector. He argues that the sector has the potential to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and increase Nigeria's global competitiveness, but that these opportunities are being missed due to neglect.

Overall, Alatise's article highlights the significant consequences of Nigeria's neglect of the solid mineral sector and the need for the government to prioritize the development of the sector to drive economic growth and improve living standards.