The Chairman of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Dr Layi Fatona, has called for stronger regulatory oversight in Nigeria's mining and energy sectors, warning that weak enforcement could derail the country's ambitions in an increasingly competitive global resource landscape.

Fatona made this appeal while receiving the prestigious NMGS/Shell Award at the 61st Annual International Conference of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society in Uyo. At the same event, the company's Vice President for Exploration, Johnbosco Uche, was honoured with the NMGS/Durotoye/COMEG Award.

In her remarks, NMGS President Rose Ndong praised the awardees for their enduring contributions to the growth of mining and geosciences in Nigeria, noting that their work has supported economic development and reinforced professional standards across the sector.

Fatona raised concerns over the increasing presence of unqualified operators and weak enforcement frameworks, warning that both threaten environmental sustainability and long-term industry growth.

"We are living in extraordinary times with the global energy transition accelerating and critical minerals becoming strategic assets. Nigeria must not be a spectator. We must be a strategic player and that requires competence, discipline and professional integrity," he said.

He emphasised the need to restore what he described as "professional sovereignty", insisting that trained experts must drive industry practice while regulatory institutions enforce compliance with established standards. According to him, sustainable growth cannot be achieved through investment alone without the backing of technical expertise and accountability.

Drawing parallels with the oil and gas sector, Fatona observed that although it has reached a level of maturity, it has also suffered from environmental degradation, governance failures and weakened professional authority. He warned that the mining sector must avoid repeating those mistakes.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Renaissance, Tony Attah, said the recognition underscores the company's commitment to shaping Nigeria's energy future, adding that Fatona's leadership continues to guide strategies for managing the country's natural resources in support of industrialisation.