The solid minerals sector in Nigeria has demonstrated remarkable growth recently, now accounting for 1.8% of the country’s GDP. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the sector experienced an impressive 4.61% expansion in the second quarter of 2025.
At a press conference ahead of the upcoming 10th Nigeria Mining Week in Abuja, Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, attributed this upward trend to the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms and stricter regulatory measures within the mining industry.
“A decade ago, mining’s contribution to GDP was below 0.5%. Today, it has risen to 1.8%, and the recent NBS report showing 4.61% growth in Q2 2025 confirms that our policy interventions are yielding results,” Alake stated.
He highlighted that these positive statistics reflect an increase in operational mines, a surge in investor interest, and a more significant economic impact on communities hosting mining activities.
The minister underscored that the reforms, which emphasize transparency, safeguarding investments, and strict compliance enforcement, have repositioned the mining sector as a vital component of Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy.
Alake also stressed the government’s commitment to maintaining these reforms despite opposition from vested interests. He confirmed that the policy of revoking licenses from inactive or non-compliant mining operators will persist.
“We are rigorously applying the ‘Use It or Lose It’ policy to ensure that only committed investors remain active in the sector,” he affirmed.
To further strengthen the sector, the minister announced plans to launch a Minerals Pre-Shipment Agency aimed at improving export oversight and securing revenue streams.
Additionally, efforts are underway to implement satellite monitoring systems across mining locations and to double the number of Mining Marshals, enhancing the fight against illegal mining and boosting regulatory enforcement on the ground.
Alake reiterated the administration’s resolve to position solid minerals as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic transformation.
“No intimidation or pressure will deter us. Mining is destined to become a leading contributor to our GDP,” he declared.
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Industry stakeholders, including Dele Ayanleke, president of the Miners Association of Nigeria, praised the Ministry’s achievements and urged continued reform implementation to boost investor confidence further.
The 10th Nigeria Mining Week, themed “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” is scheduled for October 13-15, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel. The event is organized by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in partnership with PwC, Vuka Group, and the Miners Association of Nigeria.
Economists view the 4.61% growth as a clear indicator of the solid minerals sector’s potential to significantly contribute to national revenue and employment, signaling tangible progress in Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.