Investors from all over the world recently descended on the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja as the Minister of Mines and Solid Minerals, Chief Sarafa Tunji Ishola presented a new mineral map of Nigeria.

Sophisticated technology has been used to identify the occurrence and spread of all minerals in Nigeria. The data covers 24 states and 44% of Nigeria with information on the outstanding areas expected by the end of March next year.

The last airborne survey of Nigeria was carried out between 1974 and 1976. This did however not cover a substantial part of the country and does not contain sufficient detail.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, Prof Siyan Malomo noted that the geophysical survey of any country is the basis of its solid minerals industry and the starting point for all investors.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Mines and Solid Minerals, Alh. Ahmed Mohammed Gasau urged investors to study the data and apply for mining leases or bid for mineral blocs that will soon be put on sale.

He added that Nigeria has put in place the necessary legal framework and regulations for mining. He also said that Nigeria is open for any genuine investors and that the country has lucrative incentives and the necessary organs to protect investments.