President Bola Tinubu has called on African nations to unite in ending the exploitation of the continent’s vast mineral resources and focus on adding value locally before exporting them to the global market.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) in Abuja, Tinubu stressed that Africa must stop serving merely as a supplier of raw materials while other regions reap the benefits of processing and industrialisation.
According to the president, African countries need stronger cooperation to ensure their natural resources generate jobs, technology, economic growth and prosperity for their citizens.
“We must put an end to exploitation and ensure our resources bring value to Africa.”
Tinubu noted that the continent possesses enormous mineral wealth capable of transforming economies if properly managed and refined locally.
He also urged governments to invest more in research, development and refining capacity to unlock the full potential of Africa’s natural resources.
The president emphasized the importance of technology transfer and regional collaboration, saying African countries should work together to build stronger value chains across the continent.
Earlier, Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake praised Tinubu’s support for reforms aimed at boosting local value addition and reducing dependence on raw mineral exports.
Alake disclosed that several African countries have already begun restricting the export of unprocessed minerals as part of efforts to maximize economic benefits from their natural resources.
The meeting took place ahead of the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS 2026), where leaders are expected to discuss strategies for resource management, industrial growth and economic development across Africa.
Source: State House / AFNIS 2026
