Federal Government to end raw mineral exports, focus on local processing and value addition

This strategy aims to attract investments, accelerate industrialization, and create jobs, transforming mining into a key driver of manufacturing and economic diversification. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, stated that the government's priority is to build industries that convert Nigeria’s mineral wealth into finished products, generating employment and strengthening productive capacity. Achieving this objective requires long-term investment, advanced technology, and strong partnerships between government and the private sector, along with reliable electricity, transport infrastructure, financing, and stable regulations.

These plans were discussed at a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the maiden Nigeria NOW Global Investors Expo 2026. The expo, scheduled for November 19 and 20, 2026, at the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, will provide investors with direct access to government institutions and commercially viable projects across strategic sectors. It will also facilitate discussions on challenges such as access to finance, infrastructure, licensing, data, technology, security, and market access.

The event will involve multiple ministries, including those responsible for industry, trade and investment, power, and petroleum resources, recognizing that mining development