FG, NIMMME to train Informal Mining Operators
The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development is to partner the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers (NIMMME) in manpower training in the sector.
This was the high point of discussion when the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Arc. Olamilekan Adegbite received the Executives of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers, who paid a courtesy visit on him on Thursday, 5th September, 2019.
The Hon. Minister stated that the Federal Government is concerned about the dangers associated with informal mining activities and have taken steps to organize the operators in the informal mining into co-operatives. He enjoined the executive to find a way to enhance their operation through training and organization of their operations to meet international best practices.
While assuring them of the Ministry’s continuous collaboration to move the sector forward, the Minister tasked the Institution to develop new curriculum for universities and polytechnics that would enable engineers to re-focus on practical aspect of engineering like fabrication and production of simple basic engineering parts.. He stated that the production of such parts by Nigeria Engineers would reduce importation of such parts and create greater job opportunity for Nigerians.
In his remarks, the Minister of State, Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, reiterated the Ministry’s willingness to continually collaborate with them, noting that the body is vital to the development of the sector. He said that mechanize methods would improve mining practices and increase revenue generation for the government.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Institution, Engr Ayo Adeyemo, congratulated the Ministers and said that the purpose of the visit was to seek closer partnership with a view to availing the ministry professional expertise in the development of the sector.
He disclosed that the main aim of the Institution is to cater for the Professional Development of Engineers and ensure their members adhere to Engineering Regulatory Rules of practice.
He solicited for greater support and collaboration to enable the Institution realize its mandate and to contribute to the present administration’s desire to diversify the economy.
Tine-Iulun, M.A
PIO (Press)
For: Director (P&PRU)
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