Prioritising Gender Equity in the Nigerian Mining Sector
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has taken a significant step towards promoting gender equity and diversity within the local mining and steel sectors. This initiative, spearheaded by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, aims to empower women and ensure their meaningful participation in the country’s mining industry.
An event held in Abuja saw the Minister announce the launch of a gender strategy policy, as well as the Women In Mining In Nigeria (WIMIN) strategy. In his address, Dr Alake emphasised the vital role of women in the success and sustainability of the mining sector, highlighting the importance of their talents, expertise, and perspectives in driving innovation and productivity.
The Ministry’s Head of Information & Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, echoed this sentiment, noting that women’s contributions are essential to the growth of the mining industry. The Minister also acknowledged the historical biases and inequalities faced by women in the sector, affirming the government’s commitment to fostering diversity and empowerment through its roadmap initiative.
In line with this commitment, the Ministry engaged a consultancy firm, N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, to develop a comprehensive gender strategy aimed at increasing women’s participation in leadership and governance roles within the mining sector and communities. Dr Alake made it clear that the strategy is firmly rooted in the principles of equality, diversity, and empowerment, reflecting the government’s dedication to effecting meaningful change.
The unveiling ceremony of the gender strategy was a momentous occasion, with the National President of Women In Mining In Nigeria, Mrs Janet Adeyemi, highlighting its significance as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for collective action. The event also saw the participation of the Permanent Secretary Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, Dr Mary Ogbe, who urged industry players to steadfastly implement the gender strategy, ensuring an equitable and inclusive mining sector.
Sellim Salam, the Project Coordinator of MinDiver, underscored the importance of conducting a gender study and formulating a strategy to uplift the benefits of women in the mining sector. The ceremony included a compelling presentation by the N&G Consulting Firm Ltd, as well as goodwill messages from various organisations.
The launch of the gender strategy policy represents a meaningful step towards promoting gender equity and diversity within the Nigerian mining sector. With the government’s unwavering commitment and the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders, this initiative holds the promise of driving positive and sustainable change in the mining industry.
