A group, Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN), has launched its National Jewellery Making Competition 2025, which aims to promote Nigerian artistry in Jewellery designs.
A premier event within the upcoming Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (GGCE) 2025. This initiative is designed to celebrate and promote Nigerian artistry in jewellery design, emphasising the use of locally sourced gemstones and showcasing African elegance on a global stage.
Founder and national president of WIMIN, Engr. Janet Adeyemi highlighted the competition’s role in advancing the central theme of GGCE 2025: Accelerating collaboration for sustainable Gold and Gemstone development in Africa.” She underscored the critical importance of partnerships with industry stakeholders in achieving this shared vision.
On her part, the chairperson of GGCE 2025, Adesuwa Dan-Princewill, expressed her excitement for the competition, which is open to both emerging and professional jewellery artists. “This event is a platform to unearth and spotlight exceptional talent across the country,” she stated.
A key partner in this collaborative effort is the founder and CEO of Crafties Hobbycraft Ltd, who serves as a longstanding consultant to WIMIN on jewellery development—drawing on her professional training from institutions like Swarovski and the London.
Jewellery School, Abdullahi brings a unique blend of technical expertise and mentorship to the competition.
Emphasising the profound impact of the craft, Mrs. Abdullahi shared, “Jewellery tells stories; it reflects personality and culture and celebrates identity. Through this competition, we aim to spotlight new voices in jewellery craftsmanship and affirm the value of Nigerian creativity on the global stage.”
The competition’s theme for 2025 is “Echoes of Heritage,” and it will feature two main categories: Bead Artists and Metal Artists. Finalists will showcase their creations at GGCE 2025 from November 26–28, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.
The winners will receive awards, curated gemstone gift packs, extensive media exposure, valuable mentoring sessions, and opportunities to retail their collections through select platforms.
Ambassador Folakemi Akinleye, an executive of WIMIN and a member of the GGCE steering committee, hinted that the impressive credentials of the judges will be announced soon.
This competition is poised to be a vibrant celebration of innovation, local resources, and artisanal excellence as it promises to provide significant visibility, recognition, and business opportunities for all participants. The submission deadline is August 29, 2025.
