Minister says regional corridors could unlock billions and fast-track Africa’s industrial future.
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, is calling for the creation of regional energy hubs across Africa to drive cross-border mining and industrial growth.
Speaking at the 11th Powering Africa Summit in Washington, D.C., Alake said stronger collaboration between African nations and global partners—especially the U.S.—is key to meeting rising demand for critical minerals.
He proposed major industrial corridors like the Lagos-Abidjan and Walvis Bay routes, noting they could unlock vast mineral resources, improve infrastructure, and boost regional integration.
According to him, shared energy systems—like nuclear power within a corridor—could power multiple countries, enabling local processing, manufacturing and technology transfer.
Alake also highlighted ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s mining sector, including improved regulations, digitised licensing and stronger security measures, which he said have attracted over $2.6 billion in foreign investment.
While acknowledging challenges like illegal mining and insecurity, he noted that over 350 suspects have been arrested, signalling a tougher stance on enforcement.
The minister assured that Nigeria remains open to serious investors, offering incentives like tax waivers and profit repatriation to drive growth in the sector.
Leave a comment