Empowering Women in the Mining and Steel Sectors: A Priority for Sustainable Development
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, underscored the utmost significance of women’s inclusivity in the mining and steel sectors at the launch of the Gender Strategy for Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development in Abuja. He emphasized the government’s dedication to promoting diversity and empowering women through the execution of the “Roadmap for the Growth and Development of the Nigerian Mining Industry.”
Dr. Alake highlighted that the promotion of gender equality is not just a moral obligation but also a strategic choice that fosters innovation, improves productivity, and contributes to sustainable development. Recognizing women’s essential contributions to the success and sustainability of the mining sector, he emphasized the critical role of women’s talents, expertise, and perspectives in shaping the nation’s development.
The Gender Strategy seeks to enhance women’s involvement in leadership and governance positions within the mining sector and communities. This groundbreaking initiative is grounded in the principles of equality, diversity, and empowerment, with a focus on advancing inclusivity and gender equality in both Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development.
Dignitaries from various organizations, including the National President of Women In Mining In Nigeria (WIMIN), Engr Janet Adeyemi, and the Permanent Secretary of Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe, applauded the launch of the Gender Strategy as a beacon of hope for women in the sectors. Engr Adeyemi characterized the event as a platform to disseminate transformative strategies, mobilize stakeholders, and spark a movement towards meaningful change.
At the unveiling ceremony, the Project Coordinator of MinDiver, Engr Sellim Salam, underscored the importance of engaging a consultancy firm to conduct a gender study and develop a strategy to enhance the benefits and mainstreaming of women in the sector. The event featured a comprehensive presentation by the consultancy firm, N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, and included several goodwill messages from various organizations and stakeholders.
It is evident that the commitment to women’s inclusivity in the mining and steel sectors is not only a priority but also an imperative for sustainable development. The Gender Strategy signifies a significant stride towards fostering diversity, empowering women, and enhancing the overall sustainability of the mining sector. With resolute determination and collective action, the industry is poised to effectively implement the gender strategy and ensure an equitable and inclusive mining sector.
