At the 14th Induction Ceremony of the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG) held in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Solid Minerals development, Dr Dele Alake, underscored the pivotal role of professionalism, accountability and innovation in unlocking Nigeria’s mining potential.
Describing the event as a celebration of excellence, commitment and a brighter future, the minister, who was represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr Mary Ogbe, emphasised the pivotal role of COMEG in repositioning the mining sector as a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He lauded the 143 inductees for their hard work and dedication, acknowledging the critical role they will play in transforming the industry.
“Today’s ceremony is more than an induction; it is a rite of passage for trailblazers who have proven their mettle. As professionals, you are now ambassadors of integrity and accountability, bearing the torch of excellence that COMEG has upheld for over three decades,” he said.
Dr Alake highlighted COMEG’s instrumental efforts in reshaping the mining sector through robust regulations and groundbreaking initiatives, such as the Digital Stamp launched in 2022 featuring security-embedded unrecyclable paper stickers, has significantly curbed fraudulent practices and ensured authenticity across the industry.
The minister reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering support for COMEG, recognising it as a vital partner in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Under Mr President’s visionary leadership, we are committed to empowering COMEG with the resources and policy framework needed to drive sustainable growth in the sector,” he said.
Addressing the inductees, he urged them to see their new status not merely as a privilege but as a call to duty.
“Do not ask what COMEG can do for you; rather, consider what you can contribute to elevate this noble institution. Your dedication will help strengthen COMEG’s capacity to regulate and promote excellence in mining, geosciences, and metallurgical engineering,” he advised.
Alake called on stakeholders to join hands in transforming the sector into a driver of economic prosperity, aligning with global best practices and sustainable development goals.
Dr Ogbe in her capacity as the permanent secretary lauded the relentless efforts of COMEG management in aligning their activities with the organisation’s mandate of ensuring professionalism, regulating standards and promoting best practices in the mining and geoscience professions.
She urged all members of the organisation to prioritise the payment of their dues, stressing that this collective responsibility was vital for strengthening COMEG and enable it to fulfill its mandate.
She underscored the necessity of safeguarding the geology profession; therefore called on all stakeholders to be vigilant and report any illegitimate practices within the industry by exposing and addressing quackery in order to preserve the integrity of the profession.
The registrar/CEO of COMEG, Prof Zacheus Opafunso, stressed the importance of meeting the legal requirements of Act 40 which ensures that only professionally qualified individuals can practice in the field.