By Fatima Saka
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry Dele Alaki, has emphasized the significant role women can play in driving sustainable growth in the mining industry.
He called for stronger partnerships to support and enhance women’s participation in the sector.
Speaking at the International Mining Women Conference in Abuja on Thursday, themed “Empowering Women in the Mining Sector: Promoting Gender Equality, Economic Empowerment, and Investment Opportunities,” Dr. Alaki, who is represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary A. Ogbe, highlighted the historical contributions of women in mining.
“For generations, women have played vital roles in the industry, often behind the scenes engaging in mineral washing, sorting, processing, and addressing critical environmental sustainability issues. Yet, despite their contributions, their visibility and representation in decision-making remain limited,” he noted.
Dr. Alaki stressed that increasing female participation in mining is not just about empowerment but also about enhancing productivity, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability.
He acknowledged that gender disparity remains a major challenge in the industry.
“A mining sector that fully integrates and supports women will be better positioned for long-term sustainability and prosperity. However, gender gaps persist, especially in leadership and decision-making roles. As stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders, we must work collectively to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in mining,” he said.
Dr. Alaki outlined key initiatives aimed at bridging these gaps, including:
Ensuring equal opportunities for boys and girls from an early stage
Implementing gender equity measures to close income disparities
Expanding access to finance and investment opportunities for women-led businesses
Providing skill-based training and mentorship programs
Promoting gender-responsive policies to foster inclusion at all levels
He urged stakeholders to support these initiatives, emphasizing that empowering women in mining would significantly contribute to economic growth at both national and global levels.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Alaki expressed admiration for the remarkable contributions of women across various aspects of the mining industry, from exploration and processing to leadership and innovation.
“This conference provides a crucial platform to showcase these achievements. Women are breaking barriers, demonstrating resilience, and driving progress in the sector. Mining is a critical driver of economic growth, and their participation is not just about fairness—it is essential for sustainable development,” he said.
He reiterated the need to foster an environment that supports women entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors in mining and related industries.
In her welcome address, Dr. Mary A. Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, underscored the importance of addressing gender disparities in the traditionally male-dominated mining sector.
“This conference brings together women from across the country to reflect, strategize, and take decisive action toward breaking barriers in the industry,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to the event’s sponsors, partners, and stakeholders, emphasizing their shared vision of a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable mining sector.
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“Despite the vital contributions of women in mining, they remain grossly underrepresented, especially in leadership roles. Limited access to finance, workplace discrimination, lack of mentorship, and bias continue to hinder their full participation,” Dr. Ogbe noted.
She highlighted research showing that industries embracing gender diversity experience higher productivity, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
“Investing in women is not just a moral obligation it is an economic necessity,” she said.
Throughout the conference, participants engaged in critical discussions on workplace inclusion, career advancement, gender-based challenges, mentorship, and policy reforms.
Dr. Ogbe called for stronger advocacy efforts to ensure equal opportunities for women in mining, particularly in leadership roles.
“Change requires action. We must push for policies that champion women’s rights, provide access to education, training, and financing, and create environments where women can thrive. Let’s use this platform to build meaningful connections that will drive lasting change in the industry,” she added.
