Renaissance Chairman Demands  More Stringent   Regulation Of Mining, Energy Sectors

The Chairman of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Dr Layi Fatona, has called for stricter regulation across the mining and energy sectors, warning that weak oversight could undermine the country’s ambitions in a rapidly evolving global resource landscape.

Fatona made the call while receiving the prestigious NMGS/Shell Award at the 61st Annual International Conference of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

Also honoured at the event was Renaissance’s Vice President for Exploration, Johnbosco Uche, who received the NMGS/Durotoye/COMEG Award.

Speaking at the ceremony, NMGS President Rose Ndong, commended both recipients for their sustained contributions to the advancement of mining and geosciences in Nigeria, noting that their work has supported economic development and strengthened professional standards within the sector.

Fatona cautioned against the growing presence of unqualified practitioners and weak enforcement mechanisms, which he said pose risks to environmental sustainability and long-term sectoral 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 stressed the need to restore what he described as “professional sovereignty”, urging that trained experts should lead industry practice while institutions enforce compliance with established standards.

According to him, investment alone cannot drive sustainable growth without technical expertise and accountability.

Drawing comparisons with the oil and gas industry, Fatona noted that while the sector has achieved relative maturity, it has also been plagued by environmental degradation, governance lapses and weakened professional authority. He warned that Nigeria’s mining sector must avoid replicating those pitfalls.

Renaissance Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tony Attah, said the recognition reflects the company’s commitment to shaping Nigeria’s energy future. He added that Fatona’s leadership continues to influence strategies for managing the nation’s natural resources towards industrialisation.