Nigerian leaders are calling for a major shift in how Africa manages its mineral wealth, urging countries to expand local processing, strengthen regional cooperation and improve safety in the mining sector.
Speaking in New York, Vice President Kashim Shettima said African countries must move beyond exporting raw minerals and develop processing and manufacturing industries that retain more value on the continent.
Solid Minerals Development Minister Dele Alake proposed an African Artisanal Mining Formalisation and Safety Facility to help informal miners obtain licences, access safer equipment and receive geological and safety support. He cited recent deadly mining-site collapses in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic and Sudan.
The meeting brought together African governments, financial institutions and mining companies, while the United States expressed readiness to support efforts to develop Africa’s mineral resources.
Participants also signed the Continental Integration and Economic Assurance Declaration, aimed at strengthening cooperation on critical minerals, including processing, value addition and policy coordination.
