The era of the ‘silent contributor’ is over. On Thursday, May 14, 2026, Nigeria will officially turn its gaze toward the bedrock of its future economy as the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards (SOMEA) takes center stage at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

With the theme: Unlocking the Future, the event would see high-ranking policymakers, global investors, members of the diplomatic corps, and captains of industry come together to deliberate on the future without oil.

While the world has focused on oil, a different kind of wealth has been quietly building Nigeria’s roads, driving its tech, and fueling its skyscrapers. From the lithium powering the global EV revolution to the gold, limestone, and rare earth metals beneath our feet, the solid minerals sector is no longer Nigeria’s “hidden” wealth—it is our primary frontier.

The Oscars of the mining world
Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, SOMEA 2026 isn’t just an award ceremony; it is a high-stakes recognition of the titans, innovators, and risk-takers who are diversifying Nigeria’s DNA.

In an official communication endorsing the event, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry Dele Alake, praised the initiative for advancing “responsible, safe, and sustainable mining practices,” while aligning with national priorities to improve transparency, strengthen investor trust, and boost Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

Project Coordinator, Femi Da-silva, noted that for too long the giants behind the literal foundation of our modern world have worked in the shadows.

“We are bringing the glamour, the prestige, and the national spotlight to the sector that will define the next century of Nigerian prosperity,” he said.

The timing couldn’t be more fortuitous. Under the aggressive reforms led by the Minister, Dele Alake, the sector is undergoing a massive “glow-up” moving from artisanal roots to a global, transparent, and high-value powerhouse. This event celebrates the formalization, the safety standards, and the massive investments making Nigeria a “must-watch” destination for global mining capital.

The Shortlist: Who is Shaping the Future?
The night will climax with the unveiling of winners across high-impact categories that reflect the sector’s new direction.

The Titan: Leading Mining Company of the Year in different categories.
The Green Shield: Excellence in Sustainable & Safe Operations
The Visionary: Outstanding Contribution to Sector Growth

As Nigeria gradually pivots toward a post-oil reality, the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards stands as the definitive checkpoint for progress. The message is clear: Nigeria is open for business, and our wealth is solid.