The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to building a world-class gemstone and jewellery industry driven by innovation and sustainability. This was highlighted at the 2025 Gemstone and Jewellery Conference and Exhibition held at the Oriental Hotel from November 26th to 28th. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Mineral Resources, Engr Abiola Olowu, represented by Geologist Oluremi Williams, explained that Lagos aims to align with the conference theme, “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa.”
He noted that while Lagos is known globally for commerce, creativity, and technology, it is now shifting attention to its untapped natural resources. According to him, these resources include clay, silica sand, bitumen, gravel, and crude oil recently discovered in the State. He stressed that harnessing these minerals responsibly will help diversify the economy, saying, “Rarely do people associate Lagos with the deep, earth-borne treasures within our reach. Today, we are here to change that narrative.”
Olowu outlined Lagos’ long-term plan to create a fully integrated gemstone and jewellery ecosystem. The vision is to position Lagos as a continental hub for exploration, cutting, polishing, grading, certification, design innovation, and access to global markets. He also disclosed that the government is advancing a three-point agenda focused on creating a conducive policy environment, building essential infrastructure and fostering strategic partnerships.
He reassured stakeholders of government support across the value chain including miners, jewellers, and artisans. “Your government sees you. We are committed to providing the tools, training, and platforms you need to compete on the global stage,” he stated. Olowu further emphasised that Lagos’ greatest wealth goes beyond minerals in the soil.
He said the true value lies in the creativity, craftsmanship, and resilience of the people, adding, “The energy of Lagos is not just in our power plants; it is in the vibrant spirit of our people. Our mineral wealth is not just in the ground; it is in the brilliance of your craft and the genius of your designs. Let us tap these minerals. Let us harness this energy. Let us unlock this wealth.”
The GGCE 2025 continues to position Lagos and Nigeria at the forefront of sustainable gold, gemstone, and jewellery development in Africa. The event attracted key dignitaries including His Royal Highness, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife, who served as Royal Father of the Day.
Others present were the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr Dele Alake, represented by Engr Farouk Yabo, and Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Adviser to the President on SDGs, represented by Mr Bala Yunusa. Also in attendance were the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Bada-Ambrose, top government officials, industry leaders, master jewellers, geologists, artisans, investors, and members of the international gemstone community.
