The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has unveiled a 13-episode television series titled Hidden Riches. The initiative aims to inspire Nigerians and attract investments by showcasing the immense potential within the country’s solid minerals sector.
The premiere of the series took place at the weekend, at the Silverbird Cinema, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja. Produced by Take 7 Media Production, the show will air on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) every Saturday, starting January 25, 2025, between 8:05 pm and 8:30 pm.
Through the first season’s 13 episodes, the ministry seeks to use entertainment as an educational tool to shift public perception, increase awareness, and promote investment in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Speaking at the premiere, permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mary A. Ogbe emphasised that Hidden Riches is more than a television series; it is a strategic platform designed to educate Nigerians and the global community about the untapped opportunities beneath Nigeria’s soil.
“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is committed to fostering innovation, creating awareness, and building capacity within the sector to unlock its full potential as a major driver of economic growth and diversification,” she said.
Ogbe noted that the collaboration with Take 7 Media Production aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to economic diversification, with the solid minerals sector as a cornerstone of the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
“This production could not have come at a better time. The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has prioritised economic diversification and the solid minerals sector remains a key pillar of this agenda,” she added.
According to Ogbe, the Hidden Riches series supports the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025, which emphasises innovation and inclusiveness in public service delivery.
“We hope that this film will spark meaningful conversations, ignite interest in the solid minerals sector, and inspire action among policymakers, investors and the wider public,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to Take 7 Media Production for its creativity and professionalism in bringing the project to life.
“Your efforts have illuminated an important narrative with the power to transform perceptions and open new frontiers for development in Nigeria,” she said.
Ogbe also lauded the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake for his leadership and unwavering support in ensuring the sector contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Following the premiere, special adviser (media) to the minister, Segun Tomori moderated a five-member panel discussion which featured special adviser to the minister,Hon. Kehinde Bamigbetan; Patah Gosh, representing African Industries Group Ltd; Patrick Odiegwu, representing Pollyguard Investment Nigeria Ltd.; Bem Pever, the series’ executive producer and Tunde Aremu, a media expert.
Speaking about the series’ message, producer Pever highlighted the importance of storytelling in driving awareness.
“Drama is an effective medium for communication. While the government has used various methods to inform the public about the solid minerals sector, storytelling connects with audiences on a deeper level,” he said.
Pever explained that Hidden Riches aims to change the narrative surrounding the solid minerals sector, which has long been overlooked. “We created relatable characters and scenarios to help audiences engage with the sector’s realities,” he added.
Hon. Kehinde Bamigbetan emphasised the ministry’s strategy to use entertainment to communicate policy.
“Our approach is to blend information, entertainment, and communication. By presenting key policy messages in a dramatic format, we embed awareness in Nigerians’ consciousness,” he said.
Bamigbetan noted that efforts to formalize artisanal miners, tackle illegal mining, and promote local participation are central to the ministry’s goals.
Gosh, representing African Industries Group Ltd., shared his company’s contributions to the sector, highlighting investments of over $600 million and the creation of 4,000 jobs.
“Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral resources. However, challenges such as poor transportation infrastructure and illegal mining remain significant. Developing rail and riverine transportation systems would greatly benefit the sector,” he said.
Similarly, Odiegwu of Pollyguard Investment Nigeria Ltd. stressed the need for increased local participation and support for indigenous investors.
“Local communities must benefit maximally from the resources extracted in their environments. Our focus should be on strengthening local players while ensuring that foreign investors contribute to national growth,” he said.
Aremu called on the media to play a more active role in the sector’s development.
“The media should conduct social audits, highlighting progress and identifying gaps. By doing so, they can hold stakeholders accountable and drive positive change,” he said.
A statement by deputy director (press and public relations) at the ministry, Kania Andeyaba introduced the cast and crew of the series.
Special adviser to the minister on broadcast and initiator of the project, Lara Owoeye-Wise delivered the vote of thanks.
The premiere was attended by representatives of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, permanent secretaries from the ministries of mines and steel development and agriculture, and stakeholders from the solid minerals sector.
Hidden Riches reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s narrative in the solid minerals sector. By blending education with entertainment, the series aims to inspire Nigerians and position the sector as a key driver of economic growth and diversification.
This strategic initiative not only highlights the wealth beneath Nigeria’s soil but also calls for collective action to ensure sustainable development for future generations.
