By Najib Sani
The Bauchi State Government has announced plans to initiate collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Mining and Geosciences (NIMG), Jos, Plateau State, as part of efforts toward establishing a new specialised institution, the Mining Institute Alkaleri, Bauchi State (MIABAS).
The initiative forms part of the activities of the Central Working Committee on the establishment of MIABAS, involving a study tour and courtesy visit to the Jos-based institute.
Our correspondent reports that the visit was aimed at gaining practical insights into the operational framework of a similar institution, particularly in areas such as infrastructure development, curriculum development and institutional management.
The committee was constituted by the Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, and led by the state Commissioner for Natural Resources Development, Maiwada Muhammad Bello, who serves as the Committee Chairman.
It comprises industry experts, members of academia, representatives from key government ministries, and other critical stakeholders in the mining sector.
Speaking during the visit, the Director-General of NIMG, Professor Suleiman Bolaji Hassan, emphasised that the successful establishment of a mining institute requires not only strong technical expertise but also sustained professional input and access to modern equipment and facilities.
He commended the Bauchi State Government for what he described as a “forward-thinking initiative,” noting that the proposed institute would significantly contribute to the development of skilled manpower essential for Nigeria’s growing mining industry.
Hassan also expressed the institute’s willingness to provide guidance and share its experience to support Bauchi State’s efforts in setting up a functional and sustainable mining institution.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Bauchi State Ministry of Natural Resources Development, Engineer Ibrahim Mato Suleiman, who led the delegation, expressed appreciation to the institute for hosting the committee.
He reiterated the commitment of the state government to the project, highlighting the strong backing of the Commissioner for Natural Resources Development, Muhammad Maiwada Bello, as well as the unwavering support of Governor Bala Mohammed.
According to him, the establishment of MIABAS aligns with Bauchi State’s broader economic diversification agenda, which seeks to harness the vast potential of solid minerals within the state and across Nigeria.
Industry analysts have noted that the creation of MIABAS could position Bauchi State as a leading hub for mining education and innovation in northern Nigeria.
The institute is expected to offer specialized training in mineral exploration, mining engineering, environmental management, and geosciences, thereby helping to bridge the current skills gap in the sector.
In addition to human capacity development, the institute is anticipated to attract investments, foster research and development, and support the adoption of global best practices in mining operations.