Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has assured that the Federal Government will leverage Nigeria’s mineral wealth to drive economic transformation. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mary Ogbe, at the press conference for the 9th Edition of Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for November 18-20, 2024, in Abuja. Alake emphasized the event’s role in attracting key voices and decision-makers from the mining industry, including local and international investors, experts, and government officials.
He noted that Nigeria Mining Week 2024 would facilitate in-depth discussions on critical issues facing the sector, such as investment promotion, capacity building, technological advancements, and the importance of well-structured Community Development Agreements (CDAs). This event showcases Nigeria’s commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment by enhancing transparency, improving data availability, and reinforcing regulatory clarity.
The three-day event is expected to draw over 2,100 participants, with more than 49 sponsors and exhibitors participating in 47 conference and workshop sessions. Notable attendance includes over 10 ministers and representatives from seven African countries, alongside participants from 23 countries across other continents, including major nations like the USA, UK, UAE, South Africa, and India.
Alake stated, “As we launch this 9th edition, it’s important to reflect on the significant progress made in the sector under this administration. Nigeria is rich in untapped mineral resources, and our efforts to reform regulatory frameworks aim to unlock these resources in alignment with sustainable development goals. The theme for this year’s conference, which will be revealed soon, focuses on our shared commitment to using our vast mineral wealth for Nigeria’s economic transformation.”
He reiterated that this vision aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing value addition, job creation, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global commodities market. “Our critical minerals, including gold, lithium, copper, and rare earth metals, present significant opportunities for domestic industrialization and foreign investment, both crucial for our national development.”
Additionally, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, represented by Board of Trustees member Ibrahim Birma, noted, “This annual event has created a unique platform for generating ideas that enrich sector reforms and policy formulation, drawing on best practices from other mining jurisdictions.”
