By Gloria Ikibah
The Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasised the crucial role of the solid minerals sector in building a stronger, more diversified Nigerian economy, moving away from dependence on oil revenues.
The Speaker who stated this at a public hearing on 12 proposed bills aimed at reforming the solid minerals sector, noted that developing this industry was “not just an option—it is an imperative” as the country seeks a resilient and inclusive economy. 
Represented by Rep. Mark Oseni, he described the public hearing as more than a formality, calling it “a fundamental pillar of our democratic process, as it offers a vital platform for robust public engagement and for capturing a diverse range of perspectives on legislation that will shape the future of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.”
He explained that the bills under consideration represent a major shift in Nigeria’s economic strategy, noting that “for decades, our economy has been heavily reliant on a single commodity.”
“As we look towards building a diversified, resilient, and inclusive economy, the development of our solid minerals sector is not just an option—it is an imperative.
“These bills collectively address the key challenges and opportunities in this sector, from legal frameworks and institutional reforms to funding mechanisms and human capital development.”
He added that the legislation reflects the House’s determination to “build the intellectual and technical capacity required to harness the mineral wealth responsibly,” the Speaker said.
Tajudeen further stressed that the effectiveness of these bills would depend on the input received from stakeholders.
“Their contributions will enable the Committee to refine these bills into comprehensive, forward-looking, and effective laws that will truly serve the national interest”, he added.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Rep. Jonathan Gbewfi, said the hearing was “not just a constitutional duty, but also a strategic step towards repositioning the solid minerals sector as a true pillar of Nigeria’s economic transformation.”
He said “As we are all aware, the solid minerals sector holds enormous potential for national growth, job creation, revenue generation, and industrial development. Yet, for decades, this potential has remained underutilized due to outdated laws, weak institutional frameworks, and poor funding mechanisms.
“This House, through the Committee on Solid Minerals Development, is determined to reverse that trend by strengthening the legislative foundation of the sector.
The Chairman explained that the public hearing provides a platform for all stakeholders, government agencies, industry players, community representatives, academia, and civil society to contribute their knowledge, perspectives, and recommendations.
He emphasised that the Committee was committed to a participatory process because the success of these legislative efforts depends on how well they reflect the realities and aspirations of all stakeholders.
