The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has said that the mining sector represents one of the most exciting investment destinations on the African continent.
He stated this on Thursday in Abuja at a press conference ahead of the 10th annual Nigerian Mining Week with the theme “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance”, slated for 13th to 15th of October, 2025.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yusuf-Yabo, the Minister said the ministry will ensure that mining contributes meaningfully to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), job creation, and community development, and to embed global best practices in environmental and social governance
In order to set the future tone of the industry, reaffirm the country’s place in the global mining community, the Minister said the ministry is set to review the past decade of progress of the sector and reposition the industry as a game changer of the country’s economy.
Extending an invitation to all stakeholders, the Minister said, “I therefore invite all stakeholders, local and international, to participate fully in this landmark 10th edition. The decade ahead is not just about mineral potential and opportunities, but about decisive action and achieving global relevance. Nigeria welcomes those who will join us on this journey.”
Alake stressed that with the nation’s rich mineral endowment, Nigeria is ready for responsible and profitable mining investments.
“Our legal frameworks are being strengthened, our licensing processes are being streamlined, and we are deepening partnerships to ensure that investors find both security and sustainability in our mining environment”, the Minister added.
The President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Dele Ayanleke, stressed that with the right policies, collaboration, and investment, the mining sector can drive economic diversification, create jobs, and contribute significantly to national development.
He emphasised that initiatives that promote investment, enhance safety, support artisanal and small-scale miners, and drive compliance with global best practices will be engaged at the event.
“I call upon all stakeholders, government agencies, investors, mining operators, sponsors, partners, service providers, and the media to actively participate in this milestone edition” Ayanleke added.
In his presentation, Habeeb Jaiyeola, head of mining sector business development of PwC Nigeria, said the mining week has created a lot of development in the mining industry through collaboration and dialogue between stakeholders and the introduction of new initiatives.
On his part, a representative from Vuka group, Samukelo Madlabane stated that the mining week will continue its critical role in shaping the industry’s future by championing collaboration, innovation and sustainable development noting that it is not just a platform but a catalyst for progress
On his part, the Executive Director of Administration and Finance of the Kaduna Mining Development Company, Aliyu Saidu pledged commitment towards sponsoring a focused space for investors, mining operators, connecting and exploring strategic opportunities.
