The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society has advocated increased investment in critical mineral resources to position Nigeria as a major player in the fast-expanding renewable energy market.

NMGS president Akinade Olatunji said this during an interview on Tuesday in Abuja.

He spoke against the backdrop of the NMGS conference, which is scheduled to be held from March 17 to 22 in Jos, Plateau.

Nigeria has 44 types of minerals, seven of which are classified as critical for the global energy transition.

Mr Olatunji said that the NMGS was determined to use its platform to showcase Nigeria’s renewable potential to international investors while also engaging governments at all levels to do the same.

“There is a global awareness and reawakening regarding the need for a shift from fossil fuel-dependent energy to sustainable renewable energy sources.

“To achieve this, there are sets of minerals that will need to be supplied regularly to the global market for the renewable energy technology to become affordable and sustainable’’, he said.

He said the upcoming conference aimed to bring attention to Nigeria’s potential in the global efforts to transition to cleaner energies.

“We want the government at all levels in Nigeria to understand the humongous potential within the geoscience and mining sphere and encourage them to tap into it for the benefit of the nation,” he explained.

Mr Olatunji expressed confidence that, at the end of the conference, new vistas of opportunities would open up that would inspire innovation among the nation’s policymakers.

Major players in the mining industry, locally and internationally, are expected to discuss major developments in the mining sector, explore investment opportunities, and chart the way forward.

(NAN)