The Federal Government has announced a renewed push to stop the export of raw minerals, saying it is shifting attention to local processing and value addition to unlock more jobs, boost industrialisation and strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
Speaking ahead of the maiden Nigeria NOW Global Investors Expo 2026 in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the mining sector is being repositioned to support manufacturing and long-term economic growth rather than serving only as a source of raw material exports. He was represented at the briefing by the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom.
According to Alake, the government’s objective is to ensure that Nigeria processes its mineral resources locally, creating industries that produce finished goods while generating employment and increasing the sector’s contribution to the economy.
“The ministry’s approach is to move the sector from simple extraction and export of raw minerals towards a system that supports processing, manufacturing, employment and stronger linkages with other parts of the economy,” he said.
He explained that delivering on the plan would require significant investment, advanced technology and strategic partnerships between public institutions and private investors.
“This requires patient capital, technical expertise, modern equipment and partnerships that recognise both commercial interests and Nigeria’s development priorities.
“It also requires investors who are prepared to comply with the law, protect host communities and the environment, and maintain transparent relationships with government and other stakeholders,” the minister stated.
Alake also stressed that a thriving mining industry depends on reliable infrastructure, noting that electricity, transport networks, processing facilities, financing and a predictable regulatory framework are all essential for investors.
“A mine cannot operate effectively without reliable power, roads, railways, processing facilities, access to financing and predictable regulation.
“In the same way, industrial development depends on a steady supply of raw materials, effective logistics and markets that can support production,” he added.
He said the Nigeria NOW Global Investors Expo 2026 will involve several ministries, including those responsible for industry, trade and investment, power, and petroleum resources, because achieving the government’s mining and industrial goals requires coordinated efforts across different sectors.
“The Expo covers areas that fall across several mandates, and no single ministry can address them in isolation,” Alake said.
