NACCIMA expresses support for FG’s economic diversification initiative

The 56th annual conference of Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has opened in Dutse, capital of Jigawa, with the body expressing support for Federal Government diversification initiative.

The association said it is in full support of the government diversification effort which proffers solid minerals as a viable option for laying strong foundation for the nation `s economic development.

According to body, Solid Minerals sector is capable of creating three (3) million jobs-direct and indirect by the year 2017, and want government to vigorously implement it development.

In his address to the opening ceremony, Bassey .O. Edem, national president of NACCIMA, disclosed that the body is happy which the on-going focus by government on Solid Mineral as it exploitation would unlock huge opportunities for national development.

Edem stated his association was particularly glad that government `s diversification programme would help build a virile nation, as well as sustained growth and development in all areas of the economy where everyone would have equal opportunity to contribute his quota.

“The theme of this year `s conference: Diversification of the Nigerian Economy: Solid Minerals in Focus” expresses in clear terms the need for diversification.

“According to the National Bureau of Statistics, as at 2014, the contribution of solid mineral sector to the Nigerian economy was just one percent. The Solid Minerals sector has potential to increase to at least five percent (5%) by the year 2017, and ten percent by the year 2020. The Sector is also capable of creating three (3) million jobs-direct and indirect by the year 2017” he noted

In view of the strategic importance which Solid Minerals sector posed to the nation `s quest for diversification, Edem charged government to ensure an orderly development of policy, and programmes put in place to activation the sector.

He explained that this can be done through provision of clear rules for the exploitation of the minerals and a clearly prescribed pattern of developments with roles of different actors clearly defined.

Furthermore, the president, said the seven minerals which the government has identified strategic solid minerals be prioritized and promoted for private sector participation and investment.
The identified solid minerals includes: Gold, Coal, Bitumen, Limestone, Iron Ore, Lead/Zinc and Barytes, he pointed out.

 

Adeola Ajakaiye