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| Protect Africa from Illegal Exploitation, Tinubu Urges African Solid Minerals Ministers |
On Wednesday in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on African leaders in the solid minerals sector to demonstrate patriotism in managing the continent's natural resources and to fight against illegal exploitation.
During a meeting at the State House with a delegation of African Ministers of Solid Minerals, led by the Chairman, Mr. Dele Alake, under the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), Tinubu emphasized the importance of defending Africa from those who illegally exploit its mineral wealth.
"We will guide the continent towards recognizing the true value of our minerals and economic creativity, and this will happen as we liberate it from undue exploitation and misuse," Tinubu stated.
Mr. Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals, noted that the group was established out of necessity and the awareness of the "divide and rule tactics" that have weakened African countries' negotiating power in the global market.
He highlighted that various international forums, including one held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia earlier this year, have discussed strategies for solid minerals in Africa. The Riyadh conference, in particular, underscored the need for Africans to capitalize on the global energy transition.
"The world requires critical metals for energy transition and green energy, and these essential metals are predominantly found in Africa. Therefore, African nations and representatives at the Riyadh conference agreed that if we do not unite and speak with one voice, those who have exploited Africans for centuries will continue to do so," the minister explained.
