The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced that the mining sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) has increased to 1.8 per cent from less than 0.5 percent a decade ago.
This announcement was made during a press briefing for the 10th Edition of the Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for October 13-15, 2025, in Abuja. The theme for the event, “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” reflects the sector’s growth and future targets.
Alake stated that the increase in GDP contribution is attributed to more mining operations and increased investments in the sector.
“In practical terms, this means more mines in operation, more companies investing, and more communities being impacted by mining activity.
“The ideas of stronger data, more investment, and greater beneficiation that seemed far off are now realities shaping the sector.
“When this platform began a decade ago, it was a modest effort to bring stakeholders together. Over the years, it has grown into the leading forum for dialogue on the future of mining in Nigeria.
“It has given us the opportunity to measure our progress, confront our challenges, and agree on a collective path forward. This 10th edition is therefore a landmark that reflects how far we have come and the responsibility we bear for the years ahead,” Alake stated.
Delivering the welcome address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, said that the week is going to be a story of Nigeria’s mining progress, and shared mission.
Also speaking, the National President of Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Dele Ayanleke, said the 10th edition of Nigeria Mining Week marks a decade of significant impact, innovation, and collaboration in the country’s solid minerals sector.
The platform has introduced cutting-edge technologies, policy reforms, strategic partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives that are transforming Nigeria’s mining landscape.
A representative from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria, Mr. Habeeb Jaiyeola, who emphasised the importance of the week as a key platform for discussions on Nigeria’s mining sector, said Nigeria has made significant efforts over the past decade to reposition mining as a crucial factor in economic diversification.
The Event Director at VUKA Group, Mr. Samukelo Madlabane, highlighted the evolution of a conversation into a national development force driven by leadership, entrepreneurs, and commitment to value addition. He said this year’s programme emphasizes exploration finance, indigenous junior miners, and creating a competitive investment climate, with the KMDC Deal Room facilitating new investment opportunities.