There had been so much talk about diversifying the Nigerian
economy since crude oil price has fallen drastically in the international
market. This development has affected the economy and brouhght untold hardship
on the citizenry. One of the ways the present day government is looking at to
diversify the economy is through solid mineral exploration. This is why the
ministry of solid minerals has been on its toes, working tirelessly to come out
with a solid minral that can serve as replacement for crude oil.
Can this really work? These solid minerals are they really
in abundance? Abundant enough to satisfy us as well as as the international
market. Remember, crude oil is found in the Niger delta wshich is almost an
entire region comprising of Eight states namely Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa,
Rivers, Akwa-ibom, Cross river and Abia states. In these regions, crude oil is
found both onshore and offshore. Thus,
it is abundant enough to cater for our energy needs as well as for exportation.
Solid minerals in the country are found in individual
states. For instance, coal is found in Enugu, Tin in Jos plateau, Gold in Osun,
salt in Nassarawa e.t.c. Non of these solid minerals expanse an entire region
or Geo-political zone of the country. Only very few of them are really in
abundance to earn foreign exchange.
Previous dispensations were aware of these solid minerals
but never thought of exploring them because it would be futile effort. Let the
truth be told! The only viable means of diversifying the economy is through
agriculture.
What do you think? Please leave a comment below.
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