Lagos: The Energy and Mines Directorate is currently holding a National Experts Meeting in Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at finalizing the review of the Draft Revised ECOWAS Mineral Development Policy and its Implementation Matrix (Revised EMDP, 2024). The meeting, which runs from November 10 to 15, 2025, gathers senior officers from ECOWAS Member States’ Ministries responsible for Mineral Resources Development, the ECOWAS Federation of Chamber of Mines (EFEDCOM), and staff of the Commission.
According to African Press Organization, this marks the third National Experts Review Meeting focused on the Draft Revised EMDP, 2024. The original ECOWAS Mineral Development Policy and its Implementation Plan was adopted in February 2012 by the Authority of Heads of State and Government (Supplementary Act A/SP.16/02/12), in response to Article 31.1 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty of 1993. This article emphasizes the need for Member States to harmonize and coordinate their policies and programs in the field of natural resources. Additionally, Article 31.2d of the treaty calls for the coordination of programs for the development and utilization of mineral and water resources.
In light of the evolving dynamics in the sector and the policy’s duration of over twelve years, the ECOWAS Commission has deemed it essential to convene Member States to review and update their consensus on key policy issues affecting the mineral sector. The primary goal, as outlined in the Draft Revised EMDP, 2024, is to foster the development of an efficient Mineral Resources Sector across the region.
The meeting offers a platform for national experts and policymakers to engage in comprehensive discussions, share expertise, and refine the Draft Revised EMDP, 2024. The aim is to ensure that the revised policy framework is in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050, the African Mining Vision, and global best practices, while also addressing sector-specific challenges and opportunities within the Community.