By Atlantic Reports

Mining stakeholders have called for clearer approval processes, improved security and stronger partnerships to turn Nigeria’s mineral resources into viable investments and benefits for workers and host communities.

They spoke on Tuesday at the opening of the 11th Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja, themed “Unlocking Investment and Growth through Partnerships”.

The October 13–14 event was organised by the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

Coordinating Regulation Without Weakening Oversight

Austin Menegbo, Country Manager of Segilola Resources Operating Ltd., said mining companies dealt with multiple government institutions overseeing land access, environmental approvals, taxation, immigration, power and trade.

He said overlapping requirements, unclear procedures and conflicting directives could create uncertainty for investors.

Menegbo called for transparent approval timelines and effective arrangements for resolving disputes between agencies.

“A more coordinated system will not mean weaker regulation. It will mean regulation that is clearer, faster and more effective,” he said.

He also proposed regular, structured engagement among government agencies, operators, investors, host communities, service providers and civil society organisations to address challenges and improve policy implementation.

Formalisation Alongside Enforcement

On illegal mining, Menegbo argued that action against criminal networks should be accompanied by accessible routes into regulated operations.

He identified technical and safety training, geological information, market support, cooperative structures, finance and alternative livelihoods as measures that could support formalisation.

His proposal places enforcement alongside the practical support needed to bring eligible operators into lawful activity.

Menegbo also highlighted exploration financing, reliable energy, infrastructure, specialised local suppliers and technical skills as priorities for improving investment conditions.

Keeping Value in Nigeria

Anna Westerholm, Head of Mission at the Swedish Embassy, said partnerships should prioritise local processing, skills development, community welfare and transparent mineral supply chains.

“Partnership means three things. First, is the value that stays, processing skills and technology that remain in Nigeria long after a contract ends,” she said.

Westerholm said responsible mining must protect workers and host communities while addressing community health, education and development.

She expressed Sweden’s readiness to deepen cooperation through technology, expertise and business partnerships. The account did not announce a specific investment agreement or funding commitment.

Cyril Azobu, Partner and Mining Industry Leader at PwC Nigeria, said partnerships needed to combine local knowledge with international expertise and financing.

He argued that mineral potential and international interest must be translated into credible projects within a predictable investment environment.

Security and Federal-State Disputes

MAN National President Dele Ayanleke identified insecurity along mining corridors and regulatory conflicts between federal and state authorities as major barriers to growth.

He said addressing both problems would improve investment conditions and strengthen mining’s contribution to economic diversification.

Ayanleke described the gathering as an opportunity to exchange ideas, technology and investment proposals. However, the supplied account did not identify agreed reforms, implementation deadlines or projects that had secured financing.

The discussions set out a shared demand for more predictable operations. For workers and host communities, progress will also depend on whether investment produces safer workplaces, local opportunities and accountable environmental management.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.