In a significant move towards reclaiming abandoned mining sites in Plateau State, the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called for robust collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the success of a newly launched Geographic Information System (GIS) database project. The initiative, spearheaded by ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance, aims to address the environmental and economic challenges posed by derelict mining sites while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable development.
Dr. Alake made the call during a courtesy visit by Mr. Olushola Ajayi, Managing Director of ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance, to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday. Represented by Dr. Ijeoma Idika, Director of Human Resources, the Minister commended ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance for its pivotal role in repositioning Nigeria’s mining sector and expressed confidence in the project’s potential to transform Plateau State.
“This project is a critical step towards addressing the environmental degradation caused by abandoned mining sites and unlocking their potential for economic use,” said Dr. Alake. “I urge ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance to leverage technical advice from the Ministry and collaborate closely with state officials, relevant agencies, and local communities to ensure its success.”
GIS Database Project: A Game-Changer for Plateau State
Mr. Olushola Ajayi, during his presentation, revealed that the GIS database project is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance and the Ministry in 2023. Plateau State has been selected as the first beneficiary of this reclamation initiative, which seeks to provide accurate spatial and environmental data essential for effective planning and execution.
“Currently, there is no comprehensive GIS data available for abandoned mining sites in Plateau State,” Ajayi explained. “This data is critical for site identification, environmental assessment, and land-use planning. Without it, rehabilitation efforts are significantly hampered.”
The project will be executed in two phases. The first phase involves the collation of GIS data to create a detailed database of abandoned mining pits. This data will help identify and characterize the sites, providing a foundation for their rehabilitation. The second phase will focus on reclaiming the sites and repurposing them for sustainable uses, such as solar energy generation, agriculture, tourism, or other economic activities based on their suitability.
Leveraging Advanced Technology and Expertise
To ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the project, ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance is collaborating with Intomatics, a Germany-based company specializing in geomatic services. Intomatics will employ satellite imagery techniques to gather data, which will be cross-referenced with on-the-ground realities in Plateau State.
Andreas Kuhnen, Director of Geospatial Data at Intomatics, elaborated on the technical aspects of the project. “The GIS data generated will be processed using artificial intelligence programs to extract specific information from satellite images. This will create a stable workflow for the reclamation process, ensuring precision and efficiency,” he said.
A team of experts, government officials, and local communities will work together to validate the collected data, ensuring its accuracy and relevance. The finalized data will be presented to the mining cadastre for future reference, with the aim of attracting major investors to the sector.
Transforming Abandoned Sites into Economic Assets
One of the most ambitious aspects of the project is its focus on repurposing reclaimed sites for renewable energy generation. Plateau State is poised to become a hub for solar energy, with abandoned mining sites being transformed into solar farms. This initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy solutions.
“The second phase of the project will not only address environmental concerns but also create new economic opportunities for Plateau State,” Ajayi stated. “By repurposing these sites for solar energy, agriculture, or tourism, we can turn what was once a liability into a valuable asset for the state and its people.”
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Development
The GIS database project underscores the importance of collaboration between the federal government, state authorities, private sector players, and local communities. Dr. Alake emphasized the need for all stakeholders to work together to achieve the project’s objectives, which align with the Ministry’s broader vision of revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector and promoting sustainable development.
As Plateau State takes the lead in this groundbreaking initiative, the project is expected to serve as a model for other states grappling with the challenges of abandoned mining sites. By leveraging advanced technology, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and prioritizing environmental and economic sustainability, the GIS database project represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s journey towards a more prosperous and sustainable future.
About ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance:
ImPPPact Nigeria Alliance is a leading organization dedicated to driving sustainable development through public-private partnerships. The Alliance works closely with government agencies, private sector players, and local communities to implement innovative solutions for economic and environmental challenges.
About Intomatics:
Intomatics is a Germany-based company specializing in geomatic services, including GIS data collection, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence-driven data processing. The company provides cutting-edge solutions for environmental and infrastructure projects worldwide.
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