‘The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development (MMSD) is pleased to announce the eighth edition of the annual Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled to take place from 16th – 18th October, 2023, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, under the theme “Capitalizing on Nigeria’s Critical Mineral Resources for Economic Growth,’; the Permanent Secretary, MMSD, Dr. Mary Ada Ogbe has said. She added that the event is designed to serve as a significant platform for key stakeholders in the mining industry to converge and discuss the pivotal role that Nigeria’s critical mineral resources play in fostering economic growth and sustainable development.
Ogbe, who made this known at a pre event press conference in Abuja, recently, discussed the objective of the event saying: ‘The Nigeria Mining Week serves as a unique platform that brings together Government Officials, Mining Companies, Investors, Technology Providers, and various Stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and collaboration aimed at unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s Mining Industry.’
While recalling the country’s rich history of mineral resources, she noted that Nigeria is poised to harness its mineral wealth for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development.
Discussing some highlights that participants could expect, she said renowned international and local experts will share insights on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the mining industry. ‘Sessions will cover topics ranging from exploration and production to sustainability and responsible mining practices with particular focus on the global energy transition trends,’ she added.
The Permanent Secretary further explained that the event will offer a platform for investors to explore potential investment opportunities within Nigeria’s Mining Ecosystem. According to Ogbe, ‘with the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment, the event will showcase the diverse investment prospects available in Nigeria.’
‘Nigeria Mining Week 2023 will provide ample networking opportunities, fostering connections among Industry Players, Government Representatives, and Service Providers. This interaction is vital for collaborations that can drive the sector’s growth process,’ she added.
While saying that a comprehensive exhibition area will feature cutting-edge technologies, products, and services related to the Mining Industry, she assured that the exhibition will give attendees the chance to witness firsthand innovative solutions shaping the sector’s future.
She therefore encouraged participation from Individuals, Companies, Government Bodies, and Organizations interested in contributing to the advancement of Nigeria’s Mining Industry. ‘Early registration is advised to secure your spot and take advantage of the various participation options available,’ she added.
Speaking at the event, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. ‘Dele Ayanleke agreed with the Permanent Secretary that Nigeria hosts huge deposit of minerals, adding that the minerals are needed to actualize global effort to transit from fossil energy to green energy.
Ayanleke therefore called on stakeholders to come together to evolve and discuss ideas to policy makers on how to pragmatically turn the country’s resources into huge economic growth and development by accelerating the process of industrial revolution, taking advantage of the nation’s mineral endowments.
‘Therefore, I appreciate the succeeding management of the Ministry of Mines and Steal Development for enabling the platform for this annual gathering by being our worthy host and senior partner on this project.,’ Ayanleke said.
Ayanleke unveiled the central theme of the 2023 Mining Week, which is, “Capitalizing on Nigeria’s Critical Mineral Resources for its Economic Growth,” and recalled that since the commencement of this annual event in 2016, Nigeria’s content development partner and the event planners have not disappointed in bringing current issues to the table for robust critique and pragmatic communique which are being considered for gradual implementation by the regulatory bodies.
‘This occasion may not permit the enumeration of the various conversations that had contributed, and still contributing, to policy initiatives in the industry; but you would agree witness with me that the communique emanating from the various editions of this annual event had constituted a major ingredient to policy decisions changing the sectoral narratives and gradually shaping the Nigerian mining landscape.’
He commended PwC for supplying the contents that make the platform rich, while also commending the Vuka Group – the event planners, for its marketing prowess and the dynamism of the strategies deployed.
‘To all our sponsors, exhibitors, resource personnel and participants, both local and foreign, your financial and intellectual resources have provided the energy for the soul of this program thus far,’ he added.
