The mineral resources industry is broadly divided into:
Licensing
Mineral exploration
Mineral Assay
Exploitation
Mineral processing and handling
Contracting
Taxation
Exporting
…………………… Continuation
Mineral Exploitation: Here all the data collected during exploration is assessed including assay in order to guide the process of mine planning, design and production outlook, It also ensures consistency in the entire project. Whether surface or underground method, there are factors to consider and the most effective in terms of recovery is adopted. Elevation (topography) is considered for set up; it’s important to avoid negative effects of different weather conditions, size/orientation of ore body is considered in adopting/designing a pit; for open pit, the design starts from the base and moves all the way up then recovery is included. As extraction takes place, it is advisable that the QA/QC department be close, the beneficiation/processing plant situated nearby for effective operations.
Mineral Processing and Handling: Mineral processing or beneficiation is basically the separation of the ore into concentrates and tailings, thus, increasing it’s value. The Different mineral properties often decides the processing method but typically the process involves comminution, sizing, concentration, dewatering/leaching.
Contracting: This shows the flexibility of the industry, here mine owners may choose to employ the services of specialist contractors to conduct specific functions in the mine; such as drilling, blasting, equipment maintenance, processing operations, scheduling and budgeting/accounting and legal matters so where there is a legal agreement between the owner(s) and other parties that is enforceable by law.
Taxation: Duties, royalties and taxes are payable on minerals mined unless there’s a waiver by the government. Royalties are payable on minerals obtained in the course of mining or exploration at rates ranging from 3 to 5 per cent of the market value of the mineral. The government may waive the payment of royalty for any mineral exported solely for the purpose of analysis or experiment or as a scientific specimen. In addition, upon the approval of the Federal Executive Council, government may defer the payment of royalty on any mineral for a specified period. Annual service fees are payable for the maintenance of mineral titles😂.
Exporting: For Minerals to be exported, brokers are needed, professionals can do this right.
In each of these areas mentioned, professionals related to these fields and others who have interest can get the necessary training/certification to practice so the industry is properly guided, strengthened and developed to the benefit of all. Remember, mineral resources is a blessing to humanity