The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has endorsed the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards (SOMEA), describing it as part of a deliberate effort to end the long-standing neglect of the mining sector’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth.

He noted that the initiative represents a fresh approach to spotlighting the sector’s role in national development.

In a weekend statement issued by his Personal Assistant on Media, Lara Owoeye Wise, titled ‘Beyond Oil: Nigeria to Honour the Hidden Giants Powering the Nation at 2026 Solid Minerals Excellence Awards’, the ministry declared that the era of the “silent contributor” is over.

“On Thursday, May 14, 2026, Nigeria would officially turn its gaze towards the bedrock of its future economy as SOMEA takes centre stage on May 14, 2026 in Abuja.

“While the world has focused on oil, a different kind of wealth has been quietly building Nigeria’s roads, driving its tech and fueling its skyscrapers. From the lithium powering the global EV revolution to the gold, limestone and rare earth metals beneath our feet, the solid minerals sector is no longer Nigeria’s ‘hidden’ wealth; it is our primary frontier.

“The Oscars of the mining world endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (SOMEA 2026) isn’t just an award ceremony; it is a high-stakes recognition of the titans, innovators and risk-takers who are diversifying Nigeria’s DNA.”

In formally endorsing the event, Alake commended the initiative for promoting responsible, safe, and sustainable mining practices, while aligning with national priorities to improve transparency, boost investor confidence, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

Project Coordinator, Femi Da-Silva, said the awards aim to bring long-overdue recognition to key players in the sector.

“We are bringing the glamour, the prestige, and the national spotlight to the sector that would define the next century of Nigerian prosperity,” he said.

He added that for too long, the drivers of the nation’s mining ecosystem have operated with limited visibility despite their foundational role in economic development.

The ministry noted that under Alake’s leadership, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from largely artisanal operations into a more structured, transparent, and high-value industry.

Awards will be presented across major categories, including ‘The Titan’ for Mining Company of the Year, ‘The Green Shield’ for excellence in sustainable and safe operations, and ‘The Visionary’ for outstanding contributions to sector growth.

The event is expected to highlight ongoing reforms, improved safety standards, and rising investments positioning Nigeria as an emerging destination for global mining capital.