MINING LEADERS ADVOCATE SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

Leaders in Nigeria’s mining sector have called for the adoption of a comprehensive sustainable resource development agenda to maximise the economic benefits of the country’s vast mineral endowments while protecting the environment and host communities.

Speaking at the 2026 Annual Mining Summit held in the capital on Friday, stakeholders emphasised the need for responsible mining practices that balance economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion. The event, organised by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, brought together government officials, industry operators, and community representatives.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who declared the summit open, underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable mining under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “We must move beyond artisanal and unregulated mining to a structured, technology-driven, and environmentally conscious industry that creates lasting value for Nigerians,” Alake stated.

Participants advocated for stronger enforcement of environmental impact assessments, community development agreements, and the use of modern technologies to minimise ecological damage. They also called for investment in value addition and local processing of minerals to reduce raw material exports and create more jobs.

The President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Mr. Adeyinka Alabi, highlighted the importance of security and infrastructure in mining communities. “Sustainable development cannot be achieved in an atmosphere of insecurity. We need deliberate policies that protect lives, investments, and the environment,” Alabi noted.

Experts at the summit proposed the establishment of a National Sustainable Mining Framework that incorporates climate change considerations, gender inclusion, and artisanal miner formalisation. They also recommended increased collaboration between government, private investors, and host communities to ensure equitable benefit sharing.

The discussions are expected to feed into ongoing policy reviews aimed at positioning Nigeria as a major player in the global minerals market, particularly in critical minerals needed for the energy transition. Stakeholders resolved to work closely with the government to translate the proposed agenda into actionable programmes that drive industrialisation and economic diversification.

As the country intensifies efforts to harness its solid minerals potential, the push for sustainability is seen as critical to long-term sector viability and national development.