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Hogan Lovells Leads Discussion on Sustainable Growth in Nigeria’s Mining Sector
As part of its efforts to ensure sustainability in the Nigerian mining sector, global law firm, Hogan Lovells, recently hosted a forum to discuss global best practices and establish solutions that can lead to sustainable growth in this sector.
The symposium was chaired by Hogan Lovells Partner and Head of Africa, Andrew Skipper, during the recent UK-Africa Investment Summit in London.
During the session, it was noted that the federal government of Nigeria had embarked on several economic initiatives to make the mining industry attractive, robust and conducive for investors and operators.
These initiatives include tax incentives on equipment and practical steps to encourage export and downstream processing, which are in line with the government’s agenda of diversifying the nation’s economy.
While addressing stakeholders, Skipper highlighted the significance of gaining insights into the Nigerian mining sector, stressing the need to understand the different laws backing the industry.
He noted that there are huge opportunities in mining in Nigeria, which need to be recognised and harnessed by stakeholders. “It’s vital that there is a thorough understanding of mining legislation, including applications for and renewals of exploration rights, mining rights and permits in all of the various mining sectors,” said Skipper.
At the summit, Nigeria’s Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Arc Olamilekan Adegbite, explained that, because Nigeria has primarily been known as an oil and gas producer and explorer, the country’s focus for the past four decades has been on this sector. This has led to 30 years of under-development and stagnation in Nigeria’s solid minerals industry.
However, the government now wants to diversify from oil and gas and revive Nigeria’s rich mining sector with attractive incentives for investors. Adegbite said, “Our approach to the enactment of a ‘Nigeria Beyond Oil’ era is holistic; this integrated method involves the development of the necessary infrastructure to support the mines and mining communities”.
In his presentation, Prof. Konyin Ajayi, Managing Partner at law firm Olaniwun Ajayi LP, (SAN), praised the strategies being put in place by the ministry, saying it would enhance the development of the sector for the realisation of the government’s agenda of economic diversification.
The panel of speakers at this forum included Kevin Pietersen, Partner at Hogan Lovells Johannesburg; Arc Olamilekan Adegbite, Nigeria’s Minister of Mines and Steel Development; Osam Iyahen, Director at Africa Finance Corporation (AFC); Abubakar Abba Bello, Chief Executive Officer at Nigerian Export-Import Bank; Kieran Harrington, Consulting Geologist at PW Nigeria Limited; and Catriona Laing, UK High Commissioner to Nigeria.
Twenty-one African leaders joined the UK-Africa Investment Summit on 20 January, which was also attended by UK and African businesses, international institutions and young entrepreneurs.
The Securities and Exchange Commission has revealed plans to commence investigation into the activities of an entity operating under FF Tiffany, allegedly running a fraudulent investment scheme that has defrauded citizens.
A statement by the SEC on Tuesday in Abuja said preliminary information revealed that the scheme, which promised investors unusually high and unrealistic returns, had resulted in the loss of several billions of naira.
The SEC said it viewed the activity as a threat to investor confidence and the overall integrity of the financial system.
The commission assured the public that it was working closely with law enforcement agencies and other relevant bodies to bring everyone involved in the unlawful operation to justice.
According to SEC, those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the Investment and Securities Act and regulatory provisions.
SEC reiterated its earlier warnings to the general public to desist from engaging in Ponzi or unregistered investment schemes that promised guaranteed or exaggerated returns.
“These schemes are not registered with the SEC and do not offer investor protection under the law.
“The commission is currently investigating 79 schemes and will make a statement on its findings at the conclusion of the investigation,” the SEC said.
The commission encouraged investors to conduct due diligence and verify the registration status of any investment firm or product by visiting the SEC website or contacting the commission directly through official channels.
SEC said it remained committed to its mandate of protecting investors, ensuring fair practices, and maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s capital market.
The Ogun Tech Hub in Abeokuta, Nigeria received a significant step towards increasing digital access and empowering young people as US Embassy in Nigeria launched the ‘Window on America’ facility.
The newly opened centre will offer free high-speed internet, computer access, and targeted programs to help young Nigerians build essential skills in technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
In a post on X (previously Twitter), the US Embassy described the hub as a modern ICT and resource centre meant to promote digital inclusion and provide youths with skills.
“Hello Abeokuta! We’re thrilled to announce the opening of the Ogun Tech Hub Window on America. This dynamic space offers free high-speed internet, computers, and programs to help young people gain tech, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills,” the Embassy wrote.
The facility was established in collaboration with the Ogun State and GFA Technologies, a software solutions provider for startups and SMEs.
The Embassy said the facility is part of its wider network of 29 American hubs across Nigeria, designed to empower youth and broaden access to global knowledge and opportunities.
Speaking during the launch, Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun urged young people to use the ICT industry for self-sufficiency and competitiveness globally.
He lauded the program as a public-private cooperation that connects Nigerian youngsters with global innovations.
The governor said: “The Ogun Tech Hub serves as a collaborative space for technologists, startups, and social entrepreneurs to develop tech-driven solutions for societal challenges. The partnership is aimed at positioning Ogun State as a leading tech hub in Africa, supporting creative problem-solving and commercial innovation.”
With the ‘Window on America’ program fully operational, Ogun State is well-positioned to boost youth empowerment and digital literacy.
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