Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is set for a major industry gathering as key mining companies, investors, policymakers and operators prepare for the maiden edition of the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards (SOMEA) 2026 in Abuja.
The award ceremony, organised in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, is aimed at recognising excellence, innovation, sustainability and responsible mining practices within the sector.
According to a report by The Nation Newspaper, the event will hold on Thursday at the Abuja Continental Hotel, with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, expected to deliver the keynote address.
Organisers said the awards have attracted significant attention within the mining industry, with leading government officials, investors and top operators confirming participation.
dGold, a Nigerian real-world asset tokenisation and digital infrastructure company, is the headline sponsor of the event. Other sponsors include Nigerian Indigenous Women in Mining and Natural Resources Organisation, Rebar Perfecta Limited and Titan Minerals.
The organisers explained that the initiative is designed to celebrate achievements in the industry, encourage operational excellence, strengthen investor confidence and support the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda through the solid minerals sector.
Among organisations shortlisted for awards are Dukia Gold, OMB Corporate Trust Limited, Kian Smith Trade & Co., African Natural Resources and Mines Limited, Segilola Resources Operating, Eta Zuma, Rebar Perfecta, SAMA Technology, Sahel Resources and Trading, Bank of Industry, Wema Bank, Fidelity Bank, Kursi Investment Limited, Ceballos Investment, Solid Minerals Development Fund, Diamond New Energy, BUA Cement, African Industries Group, Mosra Energy, Julius Berger Nigeria and Southwest Bitumen.
The event will also honour individuals recognised for their contributions to the development of the mining industry, including Hauwa Ibrahim, described as one of the pioneering women in indigenous mining and gemstone development in Nigeria.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Alake said the initiative would promote best practices and attract more investment into the mining sector.
“The ministry recognises the valuable platform it will provide stakeholders across the mining ecosystem to exchange ideas, celebrate achievements and forge partnerships that will further enhance the Nigerian mining industry.
“SOMEA serves as a catalyst for best practices, investment attraction and reinforces Nigeria’s position as a leading mining destination in Africa,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of SOMEA, Femi Da-Silva, said the quality of nominees reflects the growing investment opportunities and momentum within Nigeria’s solid minerals industry.
Industry analysts said the awards could strengthen collaboration, improve investment visibility and raise operational standards across the mining sector.
