NEITI Seeks More Transparency in Nigeria’s Mining Sector

*Greets Ezinwa Okoroafor on election as FIDA president

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has advocated more transparency and accountability in the mining sector to ensure the growth of the industry and justice for host communities.
Speaking at the a training session for indigenous host communities in Nasarawa, Executive Secretary, NEITI, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, explained that for the past 16 years, the organisation had championed the cause of openness in the sector.
Orji stated that the training programme was aimed at equipping indigenous communities with the knowledge and tools needed to engage effectively with mining industry actors.
Describing it as a pivotal step in fostering a balance between the economic opportunities provided by mining and the pressing responsibilities of environmental stewardship, Orji stated that the mining sector holds vast potential for economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development.
However, mining activities, he said, come with environmental and social challenges, which, if not properly managed, can have profound and long-lasting negative impacts on the land, water, and health of local populations.
“For more than 16 years, NEITI has championed transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector, providing valuable information on the production, revenue, and governance of mining activities.
“Since 2019, the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) has expanded its requirements, asking mining companies to disclose environmental data and payments, while countries like Nigeria must publish information on mining’s environmental impacts and regulatory frameworks.
“This includes disaggregated employment data to support public debate on the role of women in extractive communities—an aspect we see as essential to community progress,” Orji said.
He explained that the latest 2022-2023 Solid Minerals Industry Report reflects the sector’s evolving role in Nigeria’s economy, with a contribution of N1.66 trillion to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or about 0.8 per cent.
Government receipts from the sector, he reiterated, have increased significantly, from N7.59 billion in 2007 to N341.27 billion in 2022—a remarkable 44-fold increase that illustrates the potential for further growth.
However, for this growth to benefit everyone equitably, Orji stated that it must be accompanied by sustainable practices, and it must involve informed, active participation from the host communities.
In his remarks, Executive Director, Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, noted that mining activities often have profound impacts on the environment, health, and socio-economic structures of host communities.
These communities, he said, frequently face challenges such as pollution, land degradation, and threats to their cultural heritage and way of life.

“Empowering mining host communities with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to engage in safeguarding efforts not only mitigates these adverse effects but also promotes sustainable development and long-term community resilience.

“Capacity building for indigenous communities is essential to ensure their active involvement in the management and oversight of these resources,” he added.

Meanwhile, NEITI has congratulated Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor on her historic election as the International President of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) at the recent conference held in Colombia.

Okoroafor, a Nigerian legal practitioner, is the first African to hold this  position, a testament to her lifelong commitment to the rule of law, advocacy for women’s rights, and dedication to transparent governance.

Orji, while expressing his support explained that Okoroafor’s election marks a significant milestone for Nigeria and Africa, underscoring the principles and standards that NEITI and EITI hold dear.