The Nigerian Metallurgical Society has urged the Federal Government and private investors to focus on domestic mineral processing rather than exporting raw natural resources. The call was made during the society’s 41st Conference and Annual General Meeting held in Abuja, according to Tribune Online.
Addressing attendees at the event, NMS President Dr Fidelis Mfewase Achiv stated that moving towards in-country processing and manufacturing would stimulate industrial growth, provide jobs, and reduce the country's reliance on imported goods. He noted that Nigeria possesses vast reserves of mineral resources, such as lithium, gold, iron ore, limestone, lead-zinc, and tin, but still struggles to convert them into broader economic gains.
Achiv explained that establishing a full value chain from raw minerals to finished manufactured products is crucial for Nigeria’s economic future. The society maintained that the true worth of the nation’s mineral assets must be measured by domestic job creation, technological progress, and sustained industrial expansion rather than the volume of raw materials shipped abroad.
The group also highlighted the strategic importance of steel in driving key sectors, including rail projects, road infrastructure, car production, and agricultural equipment. To meet these needs, the society appealed for serious attention to long-standing national assets, specifically the Ajaokuta Steel Complex and the National Iron Ore Mining Company situated in Itakpe, alongside fresh commitments to modern processing hubs.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Ime Okripo affirmed the ministry’s backing for the conference’s goals. Okripo pointed out that joint efforts between public institutions, professional groups, and commercial players remain vital to growing the country’s solid minerals sector.
During the sessions, the society pointed to key obstacles facing the industry, citing unstable electricity, weak infrastructure, funding shortages, technical skill gaps, and shifting policies. To tackle these hurdles, the body recommended greater funding for geological surveys, industrial parks, technical education, and modern machinery.
