The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has unveiled plans to set up jewellery training centres nationwide to boost the potential of the gemstones industry for youth employment.

Addressing graduates of the Masters Jewellery Making Project at the National Gemstone and Jewellery exhibition organised by the World Bank assisted Mineral Sector for Economic Diversification (MinDiver) in collaboration with the ministry, Alake stated that jewellery making adds value to the mining industry.

Other plans to demonstrate commitment to building the jewellery and  gemstones into a world-class industry, according to the Minister, are setting up a body to promote the industry and identifying the enablers.

Alake lauded the management of the ministry and officials of the MinDiver project for investing in the development of the gemstone value-chain and expanding the frontiers of knowledge in Nigeria's jewellery making industry.

The Minister said the plans would enable the country to maximise the opportunities in the market projected to grow from USD 199 billion to USD 255 billion in 2025.
 
"The development of Nigeria’s gems and jewellery industry is expected to have a significant impact on the economy. This industry has the potential to create jobs that can help reduce poverty. When fully harnessed,  Nigeria gems and jewellery industry can contribute to the local economy by generating wealth and creating opportunities for export, "the Minister asserted.

In his remarks, the project coordinator of MinDiver, Engr. Salim Salaam revealed that on exhibition were jewellery of exquisite craftsmanship, stressing that graduates showcased the result of investment in their skills, which would contribute substantially to the development of the mining industry. 

" The showcasing of exquisitely finished products processed from the nation's solid minerals gives verve to the value addition policy championed by the minister. Our gemstones and jewelries can rival the best globally, "Engr Salam added.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates and starter packs to graduates of Laurel School of Mining, a training school partnering with the ministry for jewellery making.

Thereafter, the minister took a tour of the exhibition stands, applauding the ingenuity of graduates whilst assuring them of the federal government's support for the expansion of their business.

The World Bank assisted project graduated twenty-five (25) Masters Trainees, while thirty-seven (37) were certified as Advanced Trainees of the Batch 3 Masters Jewellery making project.