The Federal Government has said the forthcoming Solid Minerals Excellence Awards (SOMEA) signal Nigeria’s determined push to replace oil with mining-led growth, as the country intensifies efforts to reposition the sector as a major pillar of its economy.
The event, scheduled to hold on May 14, 2026, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, is expected to bring together policymakers, investors, diplomats and industry leaders to recognise contributions within the mining sector, long considered a “silent contributor” to the nation’s economy.
Organisers say the awards aim to shift national attention beyond oil by highlighting the growing importance of minerals such as lithium, gold, limestone and rare earth elements in infrastructure development, technology and industrial growth.
Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the initiative has received backing from the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, who commended the awards for promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices.
In an official communication, Alake said the initiative aligns with the federal government’s priorities to enhance transparency, attract investment and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global mining space.
Project Coordinator, Femi Da-silva, said the awards are designed to recognise stakeholders who have played critical roles in advancing the sector.
He noted that operators in the industry have historically worked with limited visibility despite their contributions to economic development. According to him, the event will “bring the prestige and national spotlight to the sector that will define the next century of Nigerian prosperity.”
The awards come amid ongoing reforms in the mining sector aimed at formalising operations, improving safety standards and positioning Nigeria as a viable destination for global mining investments.
Winners will be announced across several categories, including Leading Mining Company of the Year, Excellence in Sustainable and Safe Operations, and Outstanding Contribution to Sector Growth.
With the theme “Unlocking the Future,” the organisers said the event represents a milestone in Nigeria’s transition toward a post-oil economy, signalling increased focus on harnessing the country’s vast solid mineral resources.