****Calls It a Strategic Breakthrough for Mining Sector
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has endorsed the establishment of Africa’s first Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, describing it as a transformative leap for Nigeria’s mining sector.
Speaking while receiving a delegation from the university led by the department’s pioneer coordinator, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Dr. Alake hailed the initiative as a “historic milestone” that aligns with the federal government’s drive to build local capacity and expertise in the solid minerals industry.
“By creating an academic hub for gemology and gemstone studies, Yakubu Gowon University is laying a strong foundation for the long-term growth of Nigeria’s mineral value chain,” Alake said. “This will help develop professionals in gemstone identification, valuation, and jewelry production—skills that are critical to unlocking the full value of our mineral wealth.”
Prof. Adesugba praised Dr. Alake for his visionary leadership and called for the Ministry’s support in facilitating a partnership between the department and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria. Such collaboration, he noted, would enrich the department’s curriculum and research capabilities.
In response, Dr. Alake pledged full support for the proposed affiliation, describing it as “a step in the right direction.” He encouraged other institutions to emulate the move by integrating mining-focused programs that cater to national development priorities.
“If we truly want to achieve sustainable progress in the mining sector, we must start by investing in human capital. This department is a strategic intervention—and we are also working toward establishing full-fledged universities of mining nationwide,” he added.
The visiting team included Prof. Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of the Faculty of Science; Dr. Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr. Aminu Isyaku, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining, among others.
