Dr Janet Adeyemi, President of Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN), has praised women’s rising leadership in the mining sector and Nigeria’s expanding role in the continental gemstone industry.
Dr Adeyemiade this comment when she delivered an inspiring address at the pre-event briefing for the 4th Africa Gold and Gemstone Conference in Lagos.
She praised the growing confidence of women in the field, saying, “When I see women standing boldly… I often wonder where that courage comes from.
The chain is expanding, the lines are getting longer, and more women are stepping forward.” Acknowledging international partners, she added, “The United States is taking remarkable steps, and for that, I am grateful.”
Dr. Adeyemi thanked both women and supportive men, emphasizing unity. “We women are going places… But I must thank the men who have the courage to stand with us today.”
She reminded the audience that Nigeria’s mineral resources are a national heritage: “Our natural resources were placed in the ground by God. We hold them in trust for future generations.”
Rejecting stereotypes, she stressed women’s essential role in downstream mining.
“Any country that sidelines half its population cannot progress. Who understands jewellery better than women—its design, curation, and use?” she stated.
She recounted how the Gold and Gem Conference began unexpectedly in 2021 after learning the true value of sapphire from Taraba State.
“That moment sparked the idea to create a national platform,” she said. What started modestly soon earned African Union recognition, placing Nigeria alongside Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, and Egypt on the continental Gold and Gem calendar.
“Nigeria must maintain its leadership by remaining creative.”
Dr. Adeyemi also highlighted the creation of Nigeria’s first national crown made from locally sourced gemstones, now preserved in the national archive.
“It told Nigeria’s story… a symbol of our creativity and potential.” Despite funding challenges, this year’s crown—worth over ₦5 million—reaffirmed the country’s craftsmanship.
She reiterated that WIMIN and the Conference belong to the nation, not individuals.
“This journey is about removing barriers, stopping exploitation, and empowering women who commit their resources and talents to this sector.” Exhibitions continue to attract strong sales from gemstones to finished jewellery, reinforcing Nigeria’s creative potential.
Looking ahead, she envisioned Nigerian-crafted gemstones becoming diplomatic symbols: “Gifts that reflect our identity, our creativity, and our national pride.”
