Nigeria and the African continent are taking bold, coordinated steps to strengthen value addition, deepen regional collaboration, and drive sustainable development across the gemstones and gold value chain. This assurance was given today by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, during a press briefing held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja.
Speaking ahead of the 4th African Gems and Jewellery Exhibition & Conference and the Gold & Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (AGJEC/GGCE 2025) scheduled to take place in Lagos, Dr. Alake said the theme for the 2025 edition “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa”—captures a shared continental ambition to transform the mineral sector for the benefit of all Africans.
Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund, Fatima Shinkafi, the Minister emphasized that although Africa holds nearly one-third of the world’s mineral resources, the continent receives only a marginal portion of the global mineral value. He described this disparity as a “major opportunity for growth and collective prosperity.”
Dr. Alake highlighted key reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda—ranging from enhanced transparency and accelerated geological data acquisition to improved local refining, manufacturing capacity, and the formalisation of artisanal mining. These efforts, he said, are designed to protect mining communities, boost national revenue, and position solid minerals as a central pillar of Nigeria’s industrialisation.
He stressed that gold and gemstones hold vast potential to generate employment and empower women and young people, noting that the value of a polished gem or crafted jewellery piece increases exponentially along the value chain.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to responsible sourcing, certification, and transitioning from the export of raw minerals to the production of world-class finished products. He commended Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) for advancing inclusivity and pledged continued support for training, community development, and safer mining practices.
Dr. Alake announced that AGJEC/GGCE 2025 will feature technical sessions, mentorship programmes, and practical workshops designed to increase youth and women’s active participation in the industry. He added that the conference will further strengthen regional integration and help African nations maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He urged the media to amplify accurate, inspiring narratives that showcase innovation, creativity, and leadership among women and youth in the mining ecosystem. The Minister expressed optimism that the Lagos conference will contribute significantly to building a world-class minerals sector for Nigeria.
Earlier, the President of Women in Mining in Nigeria, Mrs. Janet Adeyemi, said Nigerian women are increasingly emerging as strong leaders in the mining industry. She emphasised the importance of responsible resource management for future generations, noting that excluding women—who constitute half of the population—undermines national progress.
Mrs. Adeyemi highlighted the growth of the Gold and Gem Conference since 2021 into a fully continental platform involving five African countries. She also celebrated the creation of Nigeria’s first national crown crafted entirely from locally sourced gemstones and precious metals, describing it as “a symbol of national creativity and pride.” She reiterated that the initiative belongs to the Nigerian people and called for the removal of barriers limiting women in the sector.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Faruk Yabo, represented by the Director of Investment Promotion and Mineral Trade, Dr. Esther Udo, noted that AGJEC/GGCE 2025 will showcase Africa’s creative, cultural, and commercial advantages in the gemstone and jewellery value chain. She said the upcoming edition will feature an improved exhibition layout, richer technical sessions, and enhanced youth participation.
She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to elevating product quality, branding, and the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Signed
Kania Maliki Andeyaba
Head (Press and Public Relations Department )
18th November, 2025
