The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke have met to resolve the ongoing dispute between the Osun State Government and Segilola Resources Operating Limited. 

The meeting, which took place at the Ministry's headquarters in Abuja, aimed to find a mutually beneficial solution to the rift between the State and Segilola.

Dr. Alake emphasized the importance of state governments maintaining a peaceful and harmonious relationship with mining investors, as this is crucial for attracting investments and promoting economic growth. 

He noted that a conducive business environment is essential for sending the right signals to potential investors and stimulating economic development in the states and the country as a whole.

During the meeting, Dr. Alake stressed that the solid minerals sector plays a vital role in the federal government's economic diversification agenda. However, he warned that conflicting policies and strained relationships between operators and state governments could jeopardize efforts to develop the sector. He urged the parties to resolve their differences amicably, highlighting the benefits of industrial harmony and a favorable business climate, which would lead to increased revenue and attract foreign direct investment.

The Minister pointed out that a business environment with multiple regulatory authorities can discourage foreign investors, who prefer countries with clear, streamlined, and consistent regulations. He emphasized that the federal government has exclusive jurisdiction over solid minerals, but conflicting directives from subnational governments can deter critical investments needed to grow the mining sector.

The meeting was convened following the submission of a report by a high-powered committee established by Dr. Alake to investigate the dispute.

 The committee, led by Engr. Ganiyu Imam, Director of the Ministry's Mines Inspectorate, had been tasked with finding a resolution to the conflict, which had resulted in the closure of Segilola's operations by the state government.

Governor Adeleke welcomed the Minister's intervention and expressed the state government's commitment to improving the ease of doing business while upholding ethical standards. He reiterated the state's readiness to reach a compromise with the company to ensure smooth mining operations in Osun.

After deliberations and mediation by the Minister, both parties agreed to continue discussions to resolve outstanding issues. The meeting culminated in the presentation of the state's shareholding certificate to Governor Adeleke by Segilola Resources Limited.

The meeting was attended by Governor Adeleke, Prof. Jimoda, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Olawale Rasheed, and other government officials, as well as representatives from Segilola Resources Operating Limited, including MD/CEO Segun Lawson, Country Director Austin Menegbo, and Non-Executive Directors Folorunsho Adeoye and Kayode Aderinokun.