By Marie-Therese Nanlong

In a bid to mainstream young girls into Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, the Plateau State Chapter of Women in Mining organized a sensitization program for students from 10 secondary schools over the weekend.

The initiative, tagged “Digital Generation, Our Generation”, was part of activities commemorating the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.

Mercy Bassi, the State Coordinator of Women in Mining, emphasized that the program aimed to inspire young girls to explore career opportunities in the solid minerals industry, encouraging gender equality and inclusivity in the sector. She noted that mining offers a viable avenue for wealth creation, yet women are underrepresented.

“The future of mining is not male or female, it is human and inclusive. Every girl deserves a chance to dream big, and the girl child needs to be encouraged to contribute her quota to nation-building,” Bassi said.

Ruth Ibitola, the State Mobilization Officer, highlighted that the program brought together about 100 students from schools where the Girls for Mining (G4M) Clubs are active. She stressed that mining is not an industry reserved for men and that women should be empowered to take part in the sector’s vast opportunities.

“If you go to the mining field, you’ll find that mostly men are involved. We want more women to be part of it. There is enough wealth in mining,” Ibitola explained.

Guest speaker Pyemwa Deshi urged the girls to focus on their education, make informed career choices, and embrace opportunities that could improve their lives.

Gloria Musa, a participant from COCIN Headquarters Church Secondary School, Jos, praised the initiative, stating it has inspired her to think about her future career and how she can develop herself further.