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.
