Editor’s Note
This article highlights the ongoing efforts of Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN) to advance gender equality and opportunity within the country’s mineral sector. It also previews a significant upcoming industry event, the Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition, set for late 2025 in Lagos.
Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women in the country’s mineral sector.
The association also announced major plans for the upcoming Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition scheduled for between November 26 and 28, 2025, in Lagos.
Speaking in Lagos at a send-forth event in honour of Miss Universe Nigeria 2025, Basil Onyinyechi, who will represent the country at the global Miss Universe contest in Thailand, Chairperson of the Women in Mining Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition Planning Committee, Mrs. Adesuwa Dan-Princewill, said the association was not only focused on transforming Nigeria’s mining landscape but also promoting local craftsmanship and value addition to the nation’s rich mineral resources.
She said that this year’s event, which has gained recognition across Africa and is now being held in five countries — including Egypt, Kenya, Zambia, Ghana, and Nigeria — will feature masterclasses, exhibitions, plenary sessions, and a gala night designed to showcase innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development in the industry.
She said that the event will begin with masterclasses from November 26, led by Labi Akapa, a globally acclaimed jeweler who has designed pieces for royalty around the world. The main conference and exhibition will follow on November 27 and 28, with participation expected from over 55 countries.
The highlight of the five-day event will include a Jeweler Fashion Runway, where local jewelers will display their pieces alongside Nigerian couture fashion. The Gala Night on November 28 will also feature a jewelry-making competition with categories in beadwork and metalsmithing, aimed at discovering and mentoring new talents.
Dan-Princewill said the upcoming conference aims to equip many local miners on how to turn rough stones into luxury items that meet international standards.
Beyond promoting the technical aspects of mining, Women in Mining is also integrating fashion and cultural expression into its advocacy. As part of that vision, the organisation has thrown its weight behind Miss Universe Nigeria, who will represent the country at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand.
Mrs. Dan-Princewill explained that the queen’s crown is a true symbol of Nigerian talent and pride because it was completely designed and made by Nigerian women working in mining and jewelry design. She said the crown shows how creative and skilled Nigerian women can be when given the chance.
Women in Mining Nigeria currently has active chapters in 28 states across the country and continues to advocate for the inclusion of women in both artisanal and executive roles within the mining sector.
The Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition remain one of the flagship events driving Africa’s conversation on value addition, traceability, and responsible sourcing, key factors in ensuring that the continent benefits more from its mineral wealth.