The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has introduced a comprehensive gender strategy policy aimed at fostering diversity, empowering women, and enhancing the overall sustainability of the local mining and steel sectors.
The strategy was officially launched by Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, at an event held in Abuja on Tuesday. The occasion also marked the unveiling of the Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) strategy.
In his remarks, Dr. Alake emphasised the current administration’s commitment to prioritising gender equity and increasing female participation in the “Roadmap for the Growth and Development of the Nigerian Mining Industry.” He underscored the invaluable contributions of women to the success and sustainability of the mining sector, stating that their talents, expertise, and perspectives are crucial to the industry’s growth and progress.
“We believe that promoting gender equality is both a moral and strategic imperative that will drive innovation, enhance productivity, and contribute to the sustainable development of our nation,” Dr. Alake stated. “We encourage our stakeholders to also entrench gender equality in their organisations.”
Acknowledging the historical biases and inequalities faced by women in the sector, the minister affirmed the present administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and empowering women through the implementation of the roadmap initiative.
As part of the efforts of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Steel Development to execute this initiative, the Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification (MinDiver) engaged N & G Consulting Firm Ltd. to develop a comprehensive gender strategy.
Dr. Alake declared, “In line with the strategy objectives, which are firmly rooted in the principles of equality, diversity, and empowerment, in both ministries, we are committed to increasing women’s participation in leadership and governance roles within the mining sector and communities.”
Mrs. Janet Adeyemi, the National President of Women in Mining in Nigeria, represented by the National Secretary, Mrs. Emily Ofodile, commended the launch as a “beacon of hope” and a “rallying cry for collective action and solidarity” towards meaningful change.
Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, urged industry players to remain steadfast in their resolve to implement the gender strategy effectively, ensuring an equitable and inclusive mining sector.
The unveiling ceremony featured a comprehensive presentation by N&G Consulting Firm Ltd. and goodwill messages from various organisations, highlighting the collaborative efforts to mainstream gender equality in the mining industry.