The Federal Government has officially launched preparations for the 10th edition of Nigeria Mining Week 2025, scheduled to take place in Abuja from October 13 to 15, 2025, with the theme: “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance.”
Speaking at the official launch and first press briefing on Thursday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, declared the week open. He said the event reflects Nigeria’s readiness for responsible and profitable mining investment, anchored on the country’s vast mineral endowment.
Dr. Alake noted that Nigeria Mining Week, which began a decade ago as a modest industry gathering, has grown into a flagship platform bringing together government, investors, operators, and development partners.
“As we enter the next decade, our focus is clear: to scale up the industry, ensure sustainability, drive value addition, and firmly position Nigeria as a globally relevant mining hub,” he said.
He emphasized that hosting the event underscores government’s commitment to making mining a central pillar of economic diversification under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Our legal frameworks are being strengthened, licensing processes streamlined, and partnerships deepened to ensure that investors find both security and sustainability in Nigeria’s mining environment,” Alake added.
The Minister explained that the Nigeria Mining Week provides an avenue to demonstrate the sector’s “investability” to local and international stakeholders while engaging early with the opportunities the October event will present.
President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dele Ayanleke, hailed the past nine editions as a catalyst for sectoral growth, citing achievements in exploration, artisanal and small-scale mining formalization, and increased production of key minerals such as gold, limestone, and bitumen.
“Through this platform, the sector has steadily evolved — from policy reforms and improved regulatory compliance to attracting domestic and foreign investments,” he said, adding that mining firms are increasingly adopting modern technologies and sustainable practices.
Representatives of key partners — PwC Nigeria and VUKA Group — also highlighted the event’s impact on shaping sector dialogue and building consensus. PwC’s Habeeb Jaiyeola described it as a forum for developing actionable solutions to unlock Nigeria’s mining potential, while VUKA Group’s Sam Ukelo disclosed that over 3,500 participants are expected at this year’s conference and exhibition.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Esther Udo, Director of IPMT, reaffirmed that the 10th edition carries greater significance, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to repositioning the mining sector as a key driver of economic diversification and sustainable development.
“Nigeria’s rich mineral resources present immense opportunities to attract investment, foster innovation, and harness this wealth responsibly for national growth,” she said.
The 2025 Nigeria Mining Week will gather policymakers, financiers, miners, explorers, technology providers, and development partners to review the past decade of progress and chart the path forward.
Dr. Alake urged all stakeholders to fully participate, stressing: “The decade ahead is not just about mineral potential and opportunities, but about decisive action and achieving global relevance. Nigeria welcomes those who will join us on this journey.”