NEF Opposes Location of National Gold Refinery in Lagos, Ministry Announces Commencement of Operations

The Northern Elder Forum (NEF) has expressed opposition to the proposed location of a national gold refinery in Lagos, arguing that it goes against the principles of federal character and equity in economic development. The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development recently announced the commencement of a high-purity gold refinery plant in Lagos, along with three additional refineries in different stages of development across the country.

NEF's open letter highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to the location of such critical infrastructure, especially considering Nigeria's vast gold deposits predominantly located in the northern region.