The Federal Government has partnered with key stakeholders in the mining industry to tap into and explore potential investment opportunities within Nigeria’s mining ecosystem. This collaboration reflects the government’s dedication to leveraging the country’s mineral wealth and diverse investment prospects to drive economic growth and sustainable development.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Mrs. Mary Ogbe shared this insight during a pre-press briefing for the 8th edition of the annual Nigeria Mining Week held in Abuja. She emphasised the government’s role in leading mineral exploration and attracting foreign investors to the mining sector, considering Nigeria’s rich history of mineral resources.
“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,” Ogbe stated.
The permanent secretary highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment that showcases the diverse investment prospects available in Nigeria while also stressing the importance of exploring potential investment opportunities within the mining ecosystem.
“We are pleased to announce the 8th Edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled to take place from October 16 to 18, 2023, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, under the theme ‘Capitalising on Nigeria’s Critical Mineral Resources for Economic Growth,'” she announced.
Ogbe expressed that the Nigeria Mining Week would facilitate networking opportunities among industry players, government representatives, and service providers. This platform would encourage collaborations essential for driving the sector’s growth.
Renowned international and local experts will also share insights on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the mining industry during various sessions. Topics will span from exploration and production to sustainability and responsible mining practices, with a focus on global energy transition trends.
The president of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, emphasised the significance of the Nigeria Mining Week in influencing policy decisions and shaping the country’s mining landscape.
“Nigeria, being a destination for the huge deposit of minerals needed for this transition, it is imperative for stakeholders to come together to offer ideas to our policymakers on the ways to programmatically turn our resources into huge economic growth and development by accelerating the process of the industrial revolution, taking advantage of the nation’s mineral endorsements,” Ayanleke noted.
The event director (mining portfolio) at Vuka Group, Samukelo Madlabane highlighted the Nigeria Mining Week’s role in guiding Nigeria towards harnessing its abundant mineral resources and the vast opportunities within its mining industry.
“Nigeria’s vast endowment of minerals places it on the precipice of international investment prominence,” Madlabane stated.
He also noted that the shift towards the beneficiation of minerals and reducing raw material exports marks a new era for Nigeria. The strategic shift has the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and stimulate new infrastructure projects.
Madlabane highlighted the exciting discovery of battery metals within Nigeria’s borders, giving the country a competitive edge in the global battery metals market. This development aligns well with the world’s move toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
The collaborative efforts of the Nigerian government and various stakeholders, as showcased through the Nigeria Mining Week, underscore the nation’s determination to tap into its mineral potential for a prosperous and sustainable future.
