Press Conference 2026

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development hosted the launch of the maiden edition of the Nigeria NOW! 2026, which convenes international investors, developers, financiers and government at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja on 19 and 20 November.

The address of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, was delivered on his behalf by Engr. O. S. Nkom, Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, confirming that the Minister has accepted to serve as Patron of the maiden edition. Dr Vivian Okono, Director of Mines Environmental Compliance, opened the briefing on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, FNSE.

“Our support will not end with today’s briefing. The Ministry will continue to interface with EnergyNet Limited and relevant institutions throughout the preparatory period to ensure that the event is properly coordinated and capable of producing results beyond speeches and ceremonial participation.” Dr Dele Alake, Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

The Minister’s address confirmed that the Ministries responsible for Industry, Trade and Investment, Power, and Petroleum Resources will be involved, describing the decision as deliberate on the grounds that the Expo covers mandates no single ministry can address alone. State governments will also be given room to present projects, infrastructure needs and partnership opportunities.

The Youth Energy Summit (YES!) Nigeria runs alongside Nigeria NOW! on 20 November at the same venue. Damilola Hamid Balogun, YES! Ambassador and co-founder of the Youth Sustainable Development Network, told the briefing that Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan targets net zero by 2060, and that young people should be treated as co-creators and co-stakeholders rather than beneficiaries.

Dr Esther Udo, Director of the Investment Promotion and Mineral Trade Department, gave the vote of thanks.