Adamawa State played host to the 2025 North-East African Mineral Summit and Exhibition on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Lelewal Motels, Yola. The event, themed “Bridging Agriculture and Solid Mineral Value Chain Development Gap,” aimed to enhance productivity, investment opportunities, export trade, and capacity building in the solid minerals sector.
Organised by the Nigeria Association of Solid Minerals in collaboration with African Mineral Rating and Exchange, the summit sought to revitalise economic activities in the North-East, which have been disrupted by insecurity. The initiative aimed to encourage individuals to explore opportunities in the solid minerals sector, ultimately restoring financial stability and fostering economic growth.
Key Highlights
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Bashir Aliyu, described the summit as a wake-up call for Nigerians to harness the nation’s mineral wealth for economic development.
Eng. Musa Ashana, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Rural Infrastructure, commended the organisers, stating that mineral resource exploration is essential for wealth creation and sustainable economic growth.
Chairman of Adamawa Mining Company, Mr. Mennas Ngongurah, highlighted the state’s rich mineral deposits, including agate, copper, kaolin, gypsum, and sulphur. He announced that the Adamawa State Government had signed agreements with investors willing to develop these resources. He also warned against illegal mining, stressing that due process must be followed.
In a presentation on Solid Minerals and Agricultural Value Chains, Dr. John Y. Pakka urged participants to form cooperatives and register with mining companies for guidance on economic opportunities.
The summit concluded with an exhibition, networking sessions, and an interactive Q&A, allowing stakeholders to explore new opportunities in the solid minerals industry.
