1 week ago
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ABUJA – The Federal Government has taken a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s mining sector with the commissioning of the Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) Laboratory at the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) Headquarters in Abuja.
Commissioning the facility on Tuesday, in Abuja, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, emphasized that the laboratory is a major milestone in the government’s efforts to provide credible geoscience data, attract investors, and enhance exploration activities in the country.
“The mining sector roadmap has identified critical gaps that must be filled to achieve the desired growth. One of these is the need for reliable geoscience data to enable investors to develop projects and support small-scale miners in growing into large-scale entrepreneurs,” Dr. Alake stated.
The ICP-MS Laboratory, the first of its kind in Nigeria, is a state-of-the-art analytical facility capable of detecting and measuring trace elements at extremely low concentrations. It will provide crucial services in mineral exploration, production, environmental monitoring, forensic investigations, and clinical research, among others.
Dr. Alake noted that the commissioning of the facility aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda, as it will help reduce capital flight by providing local access to high-quality mineral analysis.
“This facility will not only enhance investor confidence but also create value addition along Nigeria’s mineral value chain. It will serve stakeholders in material science, defense, environmental studies, and food analysis,” he added.
The Minister further explained that the facility would complement other government initiatives, such as the establishment of an electronic Mineral Resources Decision Support System (NMRDSS), which enables real-time analysis of mineral deposits and surrounding infrastructure.
The new laboratory is expected to save Nigeria billions of naira annually by eliminating the need to send mineral samples abroad for testing. Additionally, it will create employment opportunities by encouraging investment in the sector.
“We are committed to formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives and equipping them with modern mining techniques. This will ensure responsible mining practices while generating more jobs and boosting revenue for the nation,” Dr. Alake said.
The Minister urged stakeholders, including researchers, mining firms, and government agencies, to take full advantage of the ICP-MS laboratory by bringing in samples for analysis. Plans are already underway to compare the lab’s results with international standards to secure ISO accreditation, which will further enhance its credibility.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NGSA, Professor Olusegun O. Ige, highlighted the importance of the laboratory in advancing geoscience research and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The commissioning of this facility represents a significant leap in our efforts to generate high-quality geoscience data that will drive investment and economic growth. It will ensure that Nigeria has a world-class mineral analysis center, reducing dependence on foreign laboratories,” he said.
Professor Ige noted that the Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS acquired for NGSA can detect elements in concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb), making it an invaluable tool for mineral analysis, resource assessment, and environmental protection.
“With this facility, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s mining sector. We are also working towards obtaining ISO certification for all NGSA laboratories, ensuring our data meets global standards,” he added.
The commissioning of the ICP-MS Laboratory marks another milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, boosting investor confidence, and promoting sustainable mining practices.
Stakeholders at the event commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its renewed focus on economic diversification through solid minerals development.
With the new laboratory now operational, Nigeria is better positioned to maximize its vast mineral resources, drive industrialization, and attract global investors into the mining sector.
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