D-G Cautions On Exploitation Of Natural Resources

The Director-General of Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Peter Onwualu, has called for more pragmatic approach to the exploitation of the nation’s natural resources.

Onwualu made the appeal in Sokoto yesterday at the opening of a three-day workshop on the development of a road map for mineral and raw materials exploitation in the North-West.

The workshop was organised by Kaduna-based Ardo Media Consultants, in conjunction with the council.

He expressed dismay that Nigeria had for over the decades, continued to depend entirely on crude oil for revenue, neglecting the exploitation and development of other sectors, especially the solid minerals.

Onwualu said the Federal Government had put in place an investment friendly minerals policy and favourable reforms to the Mining Act.

The Director-General said the council had continued to promote and execute programmes in the areas of value addition to solid minerals.

The Guest Speaker and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Bishop Kukah, who was represented by his Secretary, Rev. Onuh Ladi, said political and economic stability were key to the survival of the nation.