The Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) has introduced a new initiative designed to empower 1,000 women in Nigeria by providing training in gemstone mining and jewelry-making. This program began with a training session in Lagos and seeks to leverage Nigeria’s abundant gemstone resources to enhance economic opportunities for women in the industry.
At the event, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, Executive Secretary of SMDF, emphasized the significance of economic diversification during President Bola Tinubu’s administration. She emphasized the importance of decreasing the country’s dependence on crude oil by exploring solid minerals. She commended Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals, for his help in promoting women’s empowerment in the mining sector.
Shinkafi highlighted that Nigeria is rich in precious stones that remain largely untapped. “This training will empower women to create beautiful jewelry and establish successful businesses,” she said, noting that participants will receive loans and grants to support their entrepreneurial ventures.
Engineer Janet Adeyemi, President of Nigeria Women in Mining, thanked SMDF for their continued support, mentioning that this is the third time this program has taken place. She stated that numerous women have already gained from previous versions, enabling them to engage in mining and jewelry-making internationally. Adeyemi underscored the necessity of ongoing cooperation to guarantee women’s active participation in the mining sector.
Former Nigerian ambassador to the Philippines and Cambodia, Ambassador Folakemi Akinleye, commended the program for empowering rural women and expanding opportunities in the mining industry. Referring to her time in the Philippines, she emphasized the important role of women in the country’s mining industry, which helps drive economic growth.
Mrs. Tope Omage, previously a director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, described SMDF’s efforts as vital in improving women’s well-being and advancing job opportunities in Nigeria. She observed that the program would greatly enhance women’s abilities and create new opportunities for economic growth.
Geologist Dr. Tersoo Aga also spoke to the audience, highlighting the abundance of mineral resources in Nigeria. He emphasized that the nation has more than 500 various gemstones, presenting women with a crucial chance to take advantage of these valuable resources through the training program.
Participants from Lagos and Zamfara are hopeful about the potential opportunities that will be brought by this training. They praised SMDF and Women in Mining for creating a sustainable and well-regulated way for women to tap into Nigeria’s mineral resources and start their own businesses.
This project is seen as a key step in Nigeria’s push to broaden its economy and break down obstacles for women in mining. The long-term goal of SMDF involves providing continuous assistance, ensuring market availability, and encouraging the development of cooperatives and small businesses run by women.