The Federal Government has reaffirmed its decision to end the export of raw mineral resources, saying its focus is now on encouraging local processing and value addition to drive industrial growth, attract investment and create jobs
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the government is implementing reforms aimed at turning the mining industry into a major contributor to manufacturing, infrastructure development and economic diversification.
Speaking through the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom, at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday ahead of the inaugural Nigeria NOW Global Investors Expo 2026, Alake said Nigeria’s mineral resources should no longer leave the country in their raw state.
“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.
According to the minister, achieving that goal will require sustained investment, modern technology and close collaboration between the government 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,” Alake added.
He noted that the success of the mining sector depends on supporting infrastructure such as electricity, roads, railways, processing plants, access to finance and a stable regulatory environment.
“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 said.
“The Expo covers areas that fall across several mandates, and no single ministry can address them in isolation,” he added.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
