The Federal Ministry Of Solid Minerals Development as a central pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda has launched the 10th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for October 13–15, 2025, in Abuja.
Themed “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” the event is designed not only to showcase the sector’s progress but also to court decisive global investment and demonstrate government’s resolve to reduce dependence on oil.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by Permanent Secretary Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, stressed that Nigeria is ready for “responsible and profitable mining investment” anchored on its rich mineral endowment and strengthened regulatory framework.
“Over the past decade, Nigeria Mining Week has grown from a modest industry gathering into a flagship platform that convenes government, investors, operators, and development partners. Our focus for the next decade is clear: to scale up, ensure sustainability, drive value addition, and firmly position Nigeria as a globally relevant mining hub,” Alake said.
The Minister highlighted reforms including streamlined licensing, stronger legal frameworks, and deepened partnerships, noting that the sector is already identified under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as a driver of economic diversification.
He added that this year’s edition will be a platform to demonstrate the “investability” of the sector, with policymakers, financiers, miners, explorers, and technology providers expected to converge in Abuja.
Industry partners—the Miners Association of Nigeria, VUKA Group, and PwC Nigeria—affirmed that the week has evolved into a breeding ground for innovative ideas, landmark policy reforms, and global-standard practices.
Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, noted that the event has been instrumental in formalizing artisanal mining, boosting exploration, and attracting foreign investment, with production of key minerals like gold, limestone, and bitumen steadily rising.
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PwC’s Habeeb Jaiyeola emphasized that the forum has become critical for shaping mining conversations, addressing challenges, and charting solutions for inclusive growth and competitiveness. Meanwhile, VUKA’s Sam Ukelo revealed that more than 3,500 participants are expected this year, with expanded focus on power, steel, and infrastructure as interlinked enablers of mining success.
For government, the hidden agenda is clear: to reposition mining not just as a resource-driven industry, but as a cornerstone of national development and a credible alternative to oil.
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