By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has expressed concern that the solid minerals sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s export earnings remains far below its huge potential.

NEPC Executive Director, Mrs Nonye Ayeni, stated this on Tuesday in Calabar at a workshop titled “Unlocking Cross River State’s Potential: Strategies for Developing Critical Minerals for Export.”

Represented by NEPC Cross River Coordinator, Dr Damian Omorogbe, said Nigeria is richly endowed with solid minerals such as lithium, zinc, tin, barite and lead, which could significantly boost non-oil export revenue if properly harnessed.

She, however, noted that the sector is still dominated by informal operators, hindering its full integration into formal export channels.

“I have witnessed the pivotal role that exports play in driving sustainable economic growth. However, the journey from extraction to the international market is fraught with challenges,” Ayeni said.

She listed key obstacles as lack of understanding of export procedures, inadequate documentation, poor financing and failure to meet international standards, which often lead to losses or deter potential exporters.

The NEPC chief described the workshop as critical to building a more informed and capable community of exporters in the solid minerals sector.

In her remarks, Cross River State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Dr Abigail Duke, represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs Philomena Nyiam, urged miners to embrace government initiatives aimed at developing the sector.

She acknowledged the prevalence of illegal mining but stressed that the government is not after anyone. “We are only looking for a better way to harness the potentials in this sector for our betterment and that of the country,” she added.