*Ayanleke
The Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on state governments to explore the opportunities of investing in the downstream sector of the mining industry.
National President of MAN, Mr Dele Ayanleke made the call on Tuesday in Benin at the 2026 edition of the International Mining Summit and Exhibition organised by the Edo State Ministry of Mining.
Ayanleke, who praised the Edo state government for the Summit, said there are already examples of state government embracing this model of investments innthe mining sector.
“Nasarawa and Kaduna… have invited technology providers and investors for equity partnerships in lithium processing plants,” he said. “This model was optimally exploited by our national and regional leaders of the first republic; hence the presence of factories and industrial estates in some of our cities and major towns of the time.”
- Cross section of participants at the event
Ayanleke however called for a clear demarcation and understanding of the roles of federal and state mining authorities to avoid needles clashes.
” It is… worrisome to note that contention over regulatory oversight with the Federal Government by state and local governments, is not only against the letters and the spirit of our Constitution, it has been and will remain a clog in the wheel of our progress towards investment inflows into the sector, if not promptly addressed, ” he said.
“Isolated regulations will continue to provide incentives to all shades of illegality, revenue losses and criminality around the mining corridors.”
Ayanleke said the Summit and its theme: “Sustainable Mining for Economic Diversification and Investment Growth” came at a defining moment for the country, especially in the face of the dwindling fortunes of oil as a result of global transition to Green Energy.
Acting Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the MAN, Engr Fatai Jimoh, described the summit as a timely initiative that will not only showcase the vast mineral wealth of Edo State to local and international investors, but also foster strategic partnerships, innovation, and responsible mining practices that will benefit present and future generations.
*Engr Jimoh (left) receiving his award from Hon. Okpebholo
Jimoh, who noted that Edo State is richly blessed with abundant solid mineral resources including Gold, Limestone, Kaolin, Dolomite, Calcite, Feldspar, Quartz, Bentonite, and Granite, added that these natural endowments present immense opportunities for industrial growth, investment, employment creation, and sustainable economic transformation.
He therefore thanked the Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Mining for their visionary leadership and commitment to harnessing the state’s mineral resources for inclusive development.
“I am confident that the summit will serve as a catalyst for economic diversification, infrastructural advancement, and increased prosperity for the people of Edo State and Nigeria at large,” he said
The Edo State International Mining Summit and Exhibition 2026 took place on May 18th and 19th, 2026, at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road in Benin City, Nigeria.
The event, hosted by the Edo State Ministry of Mining, focused on the theme “Sustainable Mining for Economic Diversification and Investment Growth.”
The SSpecial Adviser to the Governor on Finance, Investments and revenue generation, Hon Kizito Okpebholo, who represented the state governor, praised the state’s mining community for their dedication. And hard work. He pledged the governor’s continued support for the sector and urged them not to rest on their oars.
*President of the Freedom Group, Dr Ehi Agenmomen (right) with Engr Jimoh is one of the awardees
Key highlights of the summit include
Displays of Edo State’s mineral endowments, including granite, marble, and feldspar.
Participants also lauded the event for the opportunities it created for the to meet with key mining stakeholders ranging from equipment providers to processors, government officials, and investors
