Experts in the mining and energy sectors have called for urgent reforms in Africa’s mining policies to align with climate change realities and economic sustainability. This was the key highlight of a webinar organized by the Natural Resources, Energy, and Environmental Law (NREEL) Committee of the International Law Association (ILA) Nigerian Branch.
Themed “Natural Resource Governance in the Era of Climate Change: Rethinking Mining Policies in Africa,” the session hosted by Oluwaseyi Ebenezer, the Chair of the NREEL Committee featured Dr. Victoria Nalule, CEO of Nalule Energy and Minerals Consultants, and Mr. Dayo Okusami, Partner at Templars, with Sandra E. Osinachi-Nwandem a member of NREEL Committee moderating the discussions .
Dr. Nalule noted that while the African Mining Vision (AMV) 2009 was designed to ensure mineral resources contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction, implementation remains weak in several African countries. She cited Botswana and Namibia as success stories, contrasting them with Ghana and South Sudan, where policy enforcement and fiscal management have been problematic.
In Nigeria, the mining sector continues to face significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, poor regulatory enforcement, and bureaucratic bottlenecks. Mr. Okusami pointed out that despite existing policies such as the Solid Minerals Act and the Solid Minerals Development Fund, the sector’s potential remains largely untapped.
Dr. Nalule emphasized that rather than drafting new policies, governments should focus on enforcing existing mining laws. Mr. Okusami, drawing from Ghana’s experience, advocated for a more practical approach to regulatory frameworks that would encourage investor confidence.
With increasing global pressure on climate change policies, Mr. Okusami warned that Africa must balance environmental sustainability with economic growth. He noted that although Africa contributes less than 3% of global emissions, stringent climate policies imposed by international bodies could stifle local mining activities.
Addressing the security risks posed by illegal mining, Mr. Okusami proposed the adoption of a Community Mining Scheme, modeled after Ghana’s approach. He explained that such a scheme would help formalize artisanal mining, providing miners with access to land, training, and necessary equipment while reducing insecurity.
The lack of reliable geological data was also identified as a major barrier to investment in Nigeria’s mining sector. Experts at the webinar called for the establishment of a National Geoscience Data Portal to provide investors with accurate mining information.
Following the discussions, experts proposed several recommendations, including:
• Strengthening the implementation of the African Mining Vision (AMV) and ensuring effective monitoring.
• Expanding mining infrastructure, including refining and processing facilities.
• Implementing a Community Mining Scheme to regulate artisanal miners and improve security.
• Enhancing financing mechanisms through tax incentives and public-private partnerships.
• Improving geological data collection and establishing an accessible data portal for investors.
