Nigeria’s cutting-edge Electronic Mining Cadastre Plus (EMC+) system has earned high praise from a visiting delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), positioning the country as a regional leader in digital mining governance and transparency.

The delegation, led by Mr. William Badieo of the ECOWAS Commission, was in Abuja as part of ongoing efforts to establish a unified regional Geo-Extractive Observatory and Cadastral System aimed at harmonising data and improving governance across West Africa’s extractive sectors.

Nigeria’s Model of Excellence

Speaking during the visit, Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, described the engagement as a moment of pride for Nigeria.

“This visit is not just a validation of our work at the MCO, but an honour for Nigeria as a whole,” Nkom said. “Our journey from irregular, paper-based records to a fully digitized, web-based system has placed Nigeria at the forefront of mining transparency and governance in Africa.”

He explained that the EMC+ system, operational since November 1, 2022, enables real-time online management of mineral titles, improves investor access, and enhances operational efficiency.

“A harmonized regional system will eliminate fragmentation,” he noted. “Investors will no longer need to adapt to different systems in every country. Nigeria’s progress can serve as a catalyst for widespread adoption across ECOWAS.”

Driving a Continental Vision

Nkom acknowledged support from international partners including the African Development Bank and long-time consultant Mr. Pai Ozora, noting their involvement signaled growing confidence in Nigeria’s mining reforms.

He also credited regulatory milestones like the 2011 Mining Regulations as foundational to the country’s success. “This is a technically driven sector. Our systems are built by engineers and geologists—not politicians—and must reflect technical precision and integrity,” he emphasized.

The DG confirmed that the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, was fully briefed and supportive of the initiative. “The Minister is deeply committed to regional collaboration and may even join us impromptu because of his passion for this vision,” Nkom revealed.

ECOWAS Applauds Nigeria’s Leadership

For the ECOWAS delegation, Nigeria’s achievements offer both inspiration and a working template for replication.

“We’ve moved beyond theory,” said Mr. William Badieo. “Our first feasibility study showed that a regional system is viable. We’re now reviewing the second phase to ensure each member state meets the minimum operational standard before integration.”

He noted that the ECOWAS Harmonised Development Policy for Mining and Hydrocarbons, adopted in 2024, mandates all member states to align with regional digital platforms. “Nigeria is far ahead, and that’s why we’re here. Today, we witnessed a practical, functional, and exemplary system in operation.”

Regional Experts Echo Praise

Also speaking during the visit, Mr. Eugene Norman, Head of the Mining Cadastre Office of Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of peer learning.

“As West African countries, we’re working towards a harmonized mining and geo-observatory system,” Norman said. “Nigeria’s experience provides a clear roadmap. It’s vital that we learn what works and what challenges exist so we can replicate success across the region.”

He added, “When all member states reach this level, we amplify our regional capacity, boost investor confidence, and enhance transparency.”

Madu Hassan Fika, Chief Geologist at Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum, described the EMC+ system as a game-changer.

“My impression was simply marvellous. I never expected to see such technological advancement. This visit has changed my perception of the depth of innovation happening at the MCO,” he said.

Fika expressed optimism that Nigeria’s leadership in digital cadastral systems would drive the success of the regional integration project. “When the ECOWAS system launches, it will highlight Nigeria’s capabilities to the world and attract greater investment.”

He concluded by thanking the MCO leadership and staff for their hospitality and forward-thinking innovation. “We appreciate what you’re doing here. God bless you all.”

A Path Toward Regional Unity

The visit marked a pivotal step in ECOWAS’ efforts to foster sustainable development and good governance in the extractive sector. With Nigeria setting the pace through its digital transformation, the region moves closer to a future where data harmonization, transparency, and investment-readiness become the standard across all member states.

The leadership of the Nigerian Senate has refuted claims of coercion surrounding the recent wave of defections from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the political realignment as a normal feature of democratic evolution.

Speaking on Tuesday during plenary after the formal announcement of the defection of all three senators from Kebbi State, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele insisted that the decision to switch parties was voluntary and in the national interest.

Senator Bamidele emphasized that the defectors—Senators Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Garba Musa Maidoki (Kebbi South)—were seasoned individuals with independent minds.

“No one is being coerced. Certainly not Senator Adamu Aliero, not Professor Yahaya Abdullahi, and not Senator Maidoki, who has made notable contributions in the private sector before entering politics. These are individuals driven by patriotism, not personal gain. They understand this is not the time for political grandstanding but a time for unity to move Nigeria forward,” Bamidele said.

He added, “To those who label this parliament a rubber stamp, they must understand we are at a critical point in our national development. What matters now is the public interest, not partisan lines.”

Also speaking, Deputy Senate President Barau congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who were present to receive the new entrants.

“This is a significant win for the APC and a clear signal that the government is on the right track. The increasing number of defections shows growing confidence in the leadership of both the President and the party,” he stated.

The defections officially leave the PDP without Senate representation from Kebbi State. The letters announcing their move were read on the floor by Barau, citing irreconcilable internal issues within the PDP and a perceived disconnection from the hopes of Nigerians.

In his letter, Senator Adamu Aliero explained his decision:
“After deep reflection and consultations, I have resolved to resign from the PDP and return to the APC, a party I helped to found. This is not a move made lightly, but one borne out of my unwavering commitment to the people I serve. The PDP has increasingly become disconnected from the aspirations of Nigerians, with internal divisions and lack of direction impeding its relevance.”

He added that the APC, under its new leadership, had shown “encouraging signs of transformation,” prioritizing national interest, economic reforms, and infrastructural development.

“I’m not defecting for personal gain,” Aliero said. “This move is guided by my desire to effectively serve my constituents and pursue progressive governance. I assure my supporters that my loyalty remains unchanged—I am only changing platforms, not my mission.”

The plenary was marked by a high-profile presence including Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, former Governor Usman Sa’idu Nasamu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and former Senator Uche Ekwunife.

Following the announcements, the defected senators were formally seated with their APC colleagues, receiving a warm welcome from the ruling party’s caucus.

…Unity, Peace Must Be Collective Responsibility – Abdulsalami
…Tinubu Laying Foundation for Real Growth – Minister
…We All Worked Against Jonathan – Amaechi

The public presentation of “Being True to Myself,” the autobiography of former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, held Tuesday in Abuja, became a convergence of political reflections, revelations, and renewed calls for national unity and development.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, delivering the keynote address, stated candidly that Nigeria has yet to become the nation of its citizens’ dreams. “Nigeria that we are working for, we haven’t gotten there. And I believe it is the responsibility of each of us to ensure that we get there. Our job is not finished until we are finished,” he declared.

Obasanjo also shared personal insights into how he appointed Lamido as Foreign Affairs Minister during his administration, recounting how a previous nominee for the position had declined, leading to Lamido’s emergence due to his close association with the original candidate. Commending Lamido’s legacy, Obasanjo added, “You performed creditably as a governor. You are in your own right now a statesman. The young shall grow—and you have grown.”

The Chairman of the occasion, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by former INEC Chairman Professor Attahiru Jega, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building.
“We all have a role to play to forge unity and engender peaceful coexistence, and contribute to the progress and development of Nigeria,” he said.

He lauded Lamido’s courage in writing the book, noting its value in offering a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape and encouraging others to document their experiences.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, praised Lamido for preserving political memory and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s democratic discourse.

“The book aptly reflects the man Sule Lamido—principled, consistent, and bold. I recommend it to students, scholars, journalists, and politicians alike,” the Minister stated.

Highlighting the Tinubu administration’s reform agenda, he added, “We are not where we need to be yet, but President Tinubu has shown uncommon audacity and vision to put Nigeria on the path of true growth and development. After a rocky start due to tough but necessary reforms, we are now seeing signs of macroeconomic stability and beneficial outcomes.”

The event also featured a moment of political candour from former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, who disclosed that he and others had worked together to oppose former President Goodluck Jonathan during the 2015 elections.

“All of us agreed to go against President Jonathan. We agreed to leave PDP, but Lamido disagreed—that was our point of divergence,” Amaechi revealed. “He was also the instrument behind my second term as Chairman of the Governors’ Forum. I’ve not seen any governor in Jigawa that surpassed Lamido in infrastructure.”

In his vote of thanks, Lamido expressed profound appreciation to those who attended, especially former President Obasanjo.
“I can never find enough words to express my profound gratitude to my boss, my guide, my leader, my inspiration—President Olusegun Obasanjo—for all he has done and continues to do for me since 1999. His love, trust, and confidence in me are clearly shown in the inspiring foreword he wrote and his presence here today. Baba, I sincerely and profoundly thank you,” he said.

The event attracted dignitaries, scholars, political stakeholders, and members of the public who celebrated Lamido’s contribution to Nigeria’s political journey through his memoir.