Abuja: The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, highlighted the significance of the Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (GGCE) as a platform to expand opportunities and enhance regional integration for Nigeria’s mineral wealth. The announcement was made at a news conference in Abuja, ahead of the upcoming event.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the GGCE, organized by Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN), is set to host its fourth edition from November 24 to November 28 in Lagos State. This conference aims to advance Agenda 2063 by promoting local value addition, responsible mining, and regional collaboration within Africa’s gold and gemstone sector.
The Minister, represented by Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi, Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund, emphasized the alignment of the sector’s development with the Ministry’s objectives. These include implementing reforms, enhancing transparency, accelerating geological data acquisition, supporting local refining, and formalizing artisanal mining.
Dr. Alake described the gold and gemstone industry as essential for harnessing Nigeria’s mineral wealth to improve citizens’ welfare. He pointed out the industry’s potential for job creation, empowerment of women and youth, and the initiation of new enterprises globally, highlighting the significant value addition through refined products.
The conference’s theme, ‘Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa,’ underscores a shared ambition to transform the sector. The event will feature technical sessions addressing key challenges, showcasing youth and women leaders, and offering mentorship programs to empower young Africans and aspiring women leaders.
WIMIN’s National President, Mrs. Janet Adeyemi, reiterated the importance of responsible mining for sustainable development, emphasizing the sector’s role in addressing infrastructural deficits. She advocated for the integration of women at all economic decision-making levels due to their substantial contributions to economic activities, particularly in the mining industry.
Adeyemi highlighted the creativity of women in the gems and gold sector, especially in jewelry design, and stressed the need to eliminate barriers hindering the industry’s growth and operations in Nigeria, including the exploitation of women involved.