The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has applauded the newly launched Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja.

This pioneering initiative—the first of its kind in Africa—aligns with the Minister’s strategic vision to build capacity within Nigeria’s mining sector and foster innovation through education.

Hosting a delegation from the university led by Professor Adesoji Adesugba, Dr Alake described the department as a vital centre of knowledge for professionals across the gemstone and jewellery-making value chain.

“The university’s initiative is a commendable leap forward. By building a strong talent pool, we are laying the foundation for long-term development and innovation in mining,” he said.

According to the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, Dr Alake celebrated the creation of Africa’s first formal academic curriculum in gemmology as a landmark moment for the industry.

He emphasised that the initiative will play a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria’s mining sector by nurturing a new generation of skilled experts capable of driving sectoral growth.

In his remarks, Professor Adesugba commended the Minister’s ongoing reforms in the solid minerals sector, stating that they have significantly repositioned the industry for sustainable development.

He further appealed for ministerial support in securing formal affiliation between the university and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria, pledging the department’s full commitment to advancing the Ministry’s objectives—particularly in enhancing mining’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP.

In response, Dr Alake pledged full support for the proposed affiliation and urged other institutions to emulate Yakubu Gowon University’s example by integrating mining-focused disciplines into their academic offerings.

“To build local capacity, we must invest in training at home. Your department is crucial in that direction, especially in gemmology and jewellery production. We are also working towards establishing full-fledged universities of mining, and your input will be invaluable,” he added.

Professor Adesugba’s courtesy visit was joined by Professor Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of Science at Yakubu Gowon University; Dr Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr Aminu Isyaku, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining, among other representatives.