The purpose of the study was to examine the current state, prospects and challenges in digitizing archival collections of Gemstones and its resources in Nigeria. The research adopted a qualitative research method. The case study research strategy was considered appropriate for the study. Data was gathered through observation and interviews. Interviews were conducted with fifty-two respondents from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals and Steel Development, Federal Secretariat, Uyo and the Akwa Ibom State e-library, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study revealed that the respondents claimed to have good knowledge of Gemstones occurrence and its economic importance in Nigeria. They have knowledge of digitization, are aware of the need for digitizing reports published about Gemstones in Nigeria, and that most of the collections are currently not being digitized. Respondents admitted that digitization would be highly beneficial to Government, the institutions that regulate mineral resources, corporate organizations and artisan miners but issues such as lack of funding, lack of digitization policy and lack of trained personnel are the major challenges facing the digitization of Gemstones in the country. The research deals with the contextual and local nature of digitization and brings to the fore the importance of digitizing the collections of Genmstones and its resources in Nigeria. The findings and recommendations of this study is very useful to the Federal and States Governments, policy makers and all stakeholders in the solid minerals sub-sector, especially now that Government propose to diversify the Nigerian economy.
Table of Contents
- Background
- Gemstones
- Types of Gemstones
- Synthetic gemstones
- Simulated gemstones
- Global Trends
- Gemstones Identified and their Locations in Nigeria
- Comparing Gemstones and Other Minerals
Objectives and Key Themes
The study aims to assess the present state, potential, and difficulties associated with digitizing gemstone collections and related resources in Nigeria. It employs a qualitative methodology and a case study research approach to gather data through observation and interviews. The research examines the perspectives of stakeholders from relevant government ministries, libraries, and mining communities.
- The significance of gemstones in Nigeria's economic development
- The challenges and benefits of digitizing gemstone resources
- The need for a comprehensive digitization policy and infrastructure
- The potential for gemstones to contribute to Nigeria's economic diversification
- The importance of promoting sustainable and responsible gemstone mining practices
Chapter Summaries
- Background: This chapter explores the historical context of mining in Nigeria and highlights the government's emphasis on non-oil sector growth, particularly the mining industry. It discusses the potential contributions of the solid mineral sector to the nation's economy and development.
- Gemstones: This section defines gemstones and discusses their historical significance, global market value, and current challenges, including illegal activities, low revenue collection, minimal value addition, and weak oversight. It emphasizes the unique challenges faced by colored gemstones and their importance in Nigeria's economic potential.
- Types of Gemstones: This chapter discusses the various types of gemstones, including precious and semi-precious stones. It further differentiates between natural, synthetic, and simulated gemstones.
- Global Trends: This section provides a global perspective on gemstone mining, highlighting the industry's importance in resource-rich countries. It discusses global trends in gemstone consumption and the evolving jewelry industry.
- Gemstones Identified and their Locations in Nigeria: This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of gemstones found in Nigeria, emphasizing the abundant deposits of various types, including Paraiba tourmalines, sapphires, and other precious and semi-precious stones. It describes specific locations of deposits and discusses the potential economic value.
- Comparing Gemstones and Other Minerals: This chapter highlights the unique characteristics of gemstones compared to other minerals, emphasizing their high unit value and variability in pricing. It discusses the need for specific management strategies to ensure responsible extraction and sustainable development.
Keywords
The text primarily focuses on the digitization of gemstone collections and resources in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of data warehousing and dissemination for sustainable development. Key themes include the economic significance of gemstones, the challenges of digitization, the need for policy development, sustainable mining practices, and the potential for diversification of the Nigerian economy. The work examines the impact of digitization on government institutions, corporate organizations, and artisanal miners.
- Quote paper
- Udeme Usanga (Author), 2023, Digitizing the Collections of Gemstones Data Africa and International Conference on Data for Education, Abuja Nigeria, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/1387591
