Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has said the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards will boost safe mining practice.
In a statement endorsing the event, he praised the initiative for advancing “responsible, safe and sustainable mining practice” while aligning with national priorities to improve transparency, strengthen investor confidence and boost global competitiveness.
The event: “Unlocking the Future.” will be held on May 14 at Abuja Continental Hotel.
It will bring together top policymakers, global investors, the diplomatic corps, and captains of industry to deliberate on a future beyond oil.
The organisers said while the world has focused on oil, a different kind of wealth has been building Nigeria’s roads, driving its technology, and fuelling its skyscrapers.
From lithium powering the global electric vehicle revolution to the gold, limestone and rare earth metals beneath the nation’s soil, the solid minerals sector is no longer Nigeria’s “hidden” wealth; it is emerging as a primary frontier.
Endorsed by Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, organisers said it is not just an awards ceremony; it is a high-level recognition of the companies, innovators and risk-takers driving diversification in the Nigerian economy.
Project Coordinator, Femi Da-Silva, noted that for too long, the key players underpinning the foundation of modern development have operated without recognition.
“We are bringing glamour, prestige and national spotlight to the sector” he said, adding the timing is significant.
“Under the minister’s reforms, the sector is undergoing transformation from artisanal mining to a formal, high-value industry.
“The awards will show improved safety, compliance and investments positioning us as an attractive destination for global mining capital” he said.
Da-Silva said winners will be unveiled in key categories, including The Titan: Leading Mining Company of the Year; The Green Shield: Excellence in Sustainable and Safe Operations and The Visionary: Outstanding Contribution to Sector Growth.
“As we pivot towards a post-oil economy, the awards is a benchmark for progress. The message is clear: Nigeria is open for business, and its wealth is solid,” Da-Silva said
