The President of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Otunba Dele Oye Esq., has said the National Gemstone, Jewellery and Mineral Development, Exhibition and Trading Centre will help in harnessing the country’s vast mineral resources and foster economic growth and development.
Oye said this at the official commissioning of the Centre, established by the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), at the African University of Science and Technology, in Abuja.
Reeling the gains of the centre to the sustainable economic growth of the country, the NACCIMA boss said the centre will serve a hub for the exploration, processing, and trading of gemstones, minerals, and jewelry and will offer opportunities for research, education, and training, adding, “This will further strengthen the nation’s expertise and establish it as an authority in these domains.”
According to Oye, “We are glad to witness the launch of this state-of-the-art facility which marks a significant step towards boosting our nation’s economy and enhancing the reputation of Nigeria as a prominent player in the global gemstone and mineral trade.
“With this centre, the nation is better positioned to leverage its abundant resources to empower the Nigerian people and contribute to the growth of various industries.”
Reiterating the need for continued public-private partnership, Oye hailed the federal government for its commitment to unlocking the potential of the country’s mineral-rich landscape in line with its vision for economic diversification and growth.
He added, “The establishment of the National Gemstone, Jewellery, and Mineral Development Exhibition and Trading Centre is a beacon of hope as it symbolizes the government’s commitment to exploring new avenues of growth, creating employment opportunities, and reducing dependence on traditional sectors. This bold step today will in the long run make Nigeria a global player in the gemstone and mineral trade.”
