FUTES-IYIN, Mining Society Explore Partnership on Mineral Exploration, Research and Sustainable Resource Development

The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin-Ekiti (FUTES-IYIN), has expressed its readiness to establish a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) to promote research, professional training and sustainable exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources for socioeconomic development.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Gbenga Aribisala, gave the assurance while receiving the leadership of the Ekiti State Chapter of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society during a courtesy visit to the University Management.

Professor Aribisala stated that the establishment of Geology as one of the University’s academic programmes was a deliberate decision, considering the vast mineral potential of Ekiti State and the growing importance of earth sciences in national development.

He explained that FUTES-IYIN was established not only to produce graduates but also to provide practical solutions to societal challenges through research, innovation and strategic partnerships.

“We were deliberate about offering Geology at FUTES-IYIN because Ekiti State is richly endowed with solid mineral resources. Beyond academic training, we have a responsibility to contribute to unlocking the enormous potential of these resources for the benefit of the state and the nation,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between the University and the Society in areas such as research, capacity building, professional development and knowledge exchange.

According to him, such partnerships would contribute significantly to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s mining and geoscience sector.

Professor Aribisala further called for joint efforts towards supporting both the Ekiti State and Federal Governments in improving the exploration, development and responsible management of the country’s natural resources.

“There is a lot we can do together. We should begin to ask ourselves how FUTES-IYIN and the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society can jointly impact the socioeconomic realities of Ekiti State and Nigeria. Through research, innovation, and professional collaboration, we can provide solutions that will promote sustainable resource management and national development,” he added.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed delight that one of the University’s academic staff members currently serves as the Chairman of the Ekiti State Chapter of the Society, describing it as an indication of the quality of professionals within the institution and a foundation for deeper collaboration.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, Ekiti State Chapter, Dr. Richard Fakolade, commended the Management of FUTES-IYIN for the remarkable milestones achieved within the short period of the University’s establishment.

Dr. Fakolade described the Society as the umbrella professional body for registered and practising mining engineers, mineral processing engineers, metallurgists, engineering geologists and geoscientists in Nigeria.

He noted that the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG) serves as the statutory regulatory body for professionals in the sector.

He explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening professional ties between the Society and the University while exploring areas of collaboration in research, manpower development, community engagement and sustainable resource management within the earth sciences and engineering disciplines.

“We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship with FUTES-IYIN and to identifying practical ways through which the Society can support and align with the University’s vision and strategic goals. We are confident that this partnership will create opportunities for impactful research, professional development, and national growth,” he said.