The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has pledged unwavering support for the newly established Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja.
The initiative, the first of its kind in Africa, aligns with the minister’s strategic vision for enhanced capacity building within Nigeria’s mining sector.
Dr. Alake stated this when hosted a delegation from the department led by Prof. Adesoji Adesugba in Abuja.
The Minister who described the new department as a vital hub of knowledge for professionals in the gemstone and jewelry-making value chain, emphasized that the initiative will strengthen Nigeria’s mining industry by cultivating a new generation of experts equipped to drive sectoral growth.
He described the establishment of Africa’s first formal curriculum in Gemology as a milestone.
“The university’s initiative is a commendable leap forward. By building a strong talent pool, we are laying the foundation for long-term development and innovation in mining.”
Dr. Alake further pledged full backing for the proposed affiliation and called on other institutions to follow Yakubu Gowon University’s lead in incorporating mining-focused courses.
“If we are to build local capacity, we must invest in training at home. Your department is a crucial step in that direction, especially in gemology and jewelry production. We are also working toward establishing full-fledged universities of mining, and your input will be invaluable,” he added.
In his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, praised the minister’s ongoing reforms, noting that they have significantly repositioned the sector for sustainable growth.
He appealed for ministerial support in securing formal affiliation between the university and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria, and pledged the department’s commitment to supporting the ministry’s goals, particularly in enhancing mining’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP.
Those on Prof. Adesugba entourage in includes, the Dean of Science, Yakubu Gowon University, Prof. Aminu Dankishiya, the Registrar, Gemological Institute of Nigeria, Dr. Tinuke Temitope and the Head of Department of Geology and Mining, Dr. Aminu Isyaku, among others.
