The Federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning the solid minerals sector as a key driver of industrial growth and regional integration.
The minister of solid minerals development Dr Dele Alake stated this at a pre-event press briefing ahead of the 4th African Gems and Jewellery Exhibition & Conference /Gold & Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (AGJEC/GGCE), scheduled for November 26–28, 2025, in Lagos.
Alake said this year’s theme, “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa,” reflects a shared continental ambition to deepen value creation, strengthen responsible mining practices, and expand inclusive growth opportunities.
Africa, he noted, holds almost a third of the world’s mineral resources but earns only a narrow slice of the global value chain.
“This gap is not just a challenge; it is an extraordinary opportunity for shared prosperity,” Alake stated.
He highlighted ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including enhanced sector transparency, accelerated geological data acquisition, expanded support for local refining and manufacturing, and the formalisation of artisanal mining to boost revenue and safeguard mining communities.
Alake underscored the economic significance of gold and gemstones—especially their role in job creation, women and youth empowerment, and the growth of small-scale enterprises. “One polished gem or handcrafted piece of jewellery can multiply in value, creating prospects far beyond the raw materials,” he said.
Nigeria, he added, is intensifying efforts on responsible sourcing and certification as part of a strategy to transition from exporting raw minerals to producing refined, high-quality jewellery and gemstone products.
Regional integration, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), will be a central focus of the upcoming conference.
The Minister also commended Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) for championing inclusivity and advancing the roles of women, youth, and artisanal miners.
He announced that AGJEC/GGCE 2025 will host technical sessions, mentorship initiatives, and workshops aimed at deepening participation and developing emerging sector leaders.
“AGJEC/GGCE 2025 is more than an exhibition. It is a platform to expand opportunities, deepen regional integration, and chart a future where our mineral wealth uplifts every member of our society,” he said
The minister urged the media to spotlight transformative developments within the sector and amplify stories of innovation, especially from young people and women across the continent.
With preparations underway, the Minister expressed confidence in welcoming stakeholders, industry leaders, and international participants to Lagos.
“Let’s work together to build a world-class minerals sector and a future where every young dream and every woman’s ambition finds room to grow,” he concluded.
