Federal Govt Sets Agenda As Nigeria Hosts 2025 Africa Gold, Gemstone Conference

The federal government has outlined a strategic agenda for driving industrial growth and regional integration as Nigeria prepares to host the 2025 Africa Gold and Gemstone Conference.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, reaffirmed this commitment during a pre-event briefing for the 4th African Gems and Jewellery Exhibition & Conference / Gold & Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (AGJEC/GGCE), scheduled for November 26–28, 2025, in Lagos.

According to Alake, the conference theme—“Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa”—captures a collective continental vision to boost value addition, strengthen responsible mining, and expand inclusive economic opportunities. He noted that despite Africa holding nearly a third of the world’s mineral resources, it still earns only a marginal share of the global value chain.

“This gap is not just a challenge; it is an extraordinary opportunity for shared prosperity,” he said.
Alake outlined ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including enhanced transparency, faster geological data generation, support for local refining and manufacturing, and the formalisation of artisanal mining to increase revenue and protect mining communities.

Highlighting the economic power of gold and gemstones, he emphasised their potential in job creation, women and youth empowerment, and the growth of small-scale enterprises. “One polished gem or handcrafted piece of jewellery can multiply in value, creating prospects far beyond the raw materials,” he noted.

Nigeria, he added, is strengthening responsible sourcing and certification processes as part of its transition from raw mineral exports to producing refined, high-quality jewellery and gemstone products. Regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will be a central pillar of the 2025 conference.

The minister also commended Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) for promoting inclusivity and enhancing the roles of women, youth, and artisanal miners. AGJEC/GGCE 2025 will feature technical sessions, mentorship programmes, and workshops designed to develop emerging sector leaders.

“AGJEC/GGCE 2025 is more than an exhibition. It is a platform to expand opportunities, deepen regional integration, and chart a future where our mineral wealth uplifts every member of our society,” he said.

Alake urged the media to highlight ongoing transformation within the sector and showcase stories of innovation, particularly from young people and women across Africa.

With preparations in full swing, he expressed confidence that stakeholders, industry leaders, and international participants will converge in Lagos for a successful event.

“Let’s work together to build a world-class minerals sector and a future where every young dream and every woman’s ambition finds room to grow,” he concluded.