Nigeria is set to host the first African Raw Materials Summit in Abuja, a major event aimed at promoting economic diversification and industrial growth across the continent.
Announcing the summit at a preliminary briefing in Abuja, the Director General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Professor Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, highlighted its importance in addressing Africa’s resource management challenges.
Themed “Shaping the Future of Africa’s Resource Landscape”, the summit will focus on leveraging the continent’s abundant raw materials for sustainable industrialization, economic expansion and global competitiveness. Professor Ike-Muonso stressed that Africa, despite being home to a significant portion of the world’s natural resources, is struggling with industrial transformation. He stressed that regional cooperation can strengthen Africa’s position in the global raw materials market while encouraging investment in processing and infrastructure development.
The event will also serve as a platform for policy formulation and management using the Raw Materials Information System (RMIS) to promote data-driven decision-making and responsible resource management. More than 1,000 participants are expected to attend, including government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, investors and researchers, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to raw material development.
Professor Ike-Muonso called on stakeholders including media outlets, corporate bodies and research institutions to support the initiative. He described the summit, scheduled for 20-22 May 2025, as more than just an event, but a movement to reshape Africa’s raw material sector, create jobs and unlock the continent’s full economic potential.
Registration is now open and early bird registration fees are valid until 30 March 2025.