Nigeria To Unlock Mineral Wealth At 9th Mining Week – Alake

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

As Nigeria prepares for the 9th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has reiterated the country’s commitment to leveraging its vast mineral wealth for economic growth.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, Dr. Alake, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mary Ogbe, emphasized the pivotal role the mining sector plays in Nigeria’s development and its potential to position the country as a major player in the global commodities market.

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to this briefing as we officially announce the 9th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for November 18th to 20th, 2024, at the Abuja Continental Hotel,” Dr. Ogbe stated on behalf of the Minister.

The Nigeria Mining Week has grown into a premier platform for stakeholders in the mining industry, attracting both local and international participants.

Dr. Alake highlighted the vast untapped mineral resources in Nigeria, including gold, lithium, copper, and rare earth metals, which hold significant potential for industrialization and foreign investment. “Our focus remains on unlocking the full potential of these resources in alignment with sustainable development goals,” he said.

The event, which aims to promote investment, foster partnerships, and encourage technological advancements, will spotlight Nigeria’s commitment to transparency and regulatory clarity, key elements in creating an investment-friendly environment.

The Minister further tied the event to the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which emphasizes job creation and value addition as vital to economic transformation.

In his remarks, Dele Ayanleke, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, represented by Ibrahim Yerima, commended the Nigeria Mining Week’s role in shaping the country’s mining sector since its inception in 2016.

He noted that the event has been instrumental in introducing participants to cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that improve returns on investments. While the event has not yet reached the full scale envisioned by its founders, it has undoubtedly shifted the narrative about Nigeria’s mineral potential, capturing global attention and fostering partnerships between indigenous players and international counterparts.

As the 2024 edition approaches, the Association remains committed to leveraging media support to further amplify Nigeria’s role in the global energy transition and showcase the immense potential of the nation’s rich mineral resources.

In her welcome address, Mrs. Esther Udoh said Nigeria Mining Week is a pivotal platform for industry leaders to converge, collaborate, and exchange ideas. Our nation’s rich mineral resources offer immense opportunities for sustainable growth and development. This event demonstrates our commitment to harnessing these resources effectively and responsibly, driving economic transformation and national progress.

Experts, policymakers, investors, innovators, academicians, and community leaders will engage in thought-provoking discussions on regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, social responsibility, and environmental conservation. Through comprehensive collaboration, we can shape the future of Nigeria’s mining industry, ensuring it thrives for all stakeholders.

The event aims to empower expert miners and industry leaders, addressing intricate challenges facing Nigeria’s mining industry and its potential impact on economic growth and sustainability.