The Lagos State Government has announced a dedicated commitment to developing a world-class, sustainable, and innovation-driven gemstone and jewellery industry, with the ultimate goal of positioning the state as a continental hub.
This vision was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Mineral Resources, Abiola Olowu, at the 2025 Gemstone and Jewellery Conference and Exhibition (GGCE) at the Oriental Hotel.
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Olowu’s message, delivered by Geologist Oluremi Williams, aligned with the conference theme: “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa.”
While Lagos is globally recognised for commerce, innovation, and technology, Olowu stated that the state is now deliberately highlighting its untapped mineral wealth.
These resources include clay, silica sand, bitumen, gravel, and recently discovered crude oil.
“Rarely do people associate Lagos with the deep, earth-borne treasures within our reach. Today, we are here to change that narrative,” Olowu said.
He noted that the responsible development of these resources is vital for diversifying the state’s economic landscape.
The state outlined a bold long-term plan to build a fully integrated gemstone and jewellery ecosystem, positioning Lagos as a hub for exploration, cutting and polishing, grading and certification, design innovation and global market access.
To achieve this, the state government is advancing a focused three-point agenda.
Creating a conducive policy environment, building critical infrastructure and fostering strategic partnerships.
Olowu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting jewellers, artisans, and miners across the entire value chain.
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“Your government sees you. We are committed to providing the tools, training, and platforms you need to compete on the global stage.”
He emphasised that Lagos’s true wealth lies not only in its mineral deposits but also in the “creativity, craftsmanship, and resilience of its people.”
