Adamawa mineral deposits can rejuvenate economy, lifts people out of poverty – Dr. Pakka
Dr. John Y. Pakka, the President of the African Mineral Rating and Exchange (AME), has asserted that Adamawa State’s vast and largely untapped mineral resources have the potential to significantly uplift its citizens from poverty. He emphasized that these resources, if properly harnessed, could provide financial independence for individuals and communities, reducing reliance on government jobs and salaries. Dr. Pakka made this declaration while speaking at the Northeast 2025 African Mineral Summit and Exhibition, held on February 25, 2025, at the Lelewal Motels Conference Hall in Jimeta, Yola.
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The two-day summit, organized by AME, was designed to foster economic empowerment in Northeast Nigeria. It focused on building capacity, facilitating business-to-business (B2B) partnerships, and promoting advanced techniques in key sectors such as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), agriculture, and solid mineral production. Experts, policymakers, and local stakeholders gathered at the event to discuss strategies for unlocking the region’s full economic potential.
Dr. Pakka highlighted that Adamawa State is endowed with more than 50 different mineral resources, ranging from industrial minerals to valuable gemstones. However, he pointed out that these abundant resources remain largely unexploited due to a lack of awareness, training, and technical know-how, particularly among rural communities. Many of these communities unknowingly farm on mineral-rich lands, unaware of the wealth beneath their feet. “If properly educated and trained, these people could leverage their resources to create wealth for themselves and their families,” Dr. Pakka stated. He emphasized the need for proper sensitization, training programs, and government support to ensure that the people of Adamawa can benefit directly from their state’s mineral wealth.
The summit’s chairman, Professor Bashir Aliyu, also underscored the region’s immense natural wealth in an interview with journalists. He explained that Adamawa and the broader Northeast region are not only rich in minerals but also blessed with vast agricultural resources. However, he noted that the lack of public awareness and structured development has prevented these resources from being fully utilized. According to Prof. Aliyu, one of the most significant threats to the proper development of the sector is illegal mining. “Illegal miners, including immigrants who understand the true value of these resources, are extracting minerals without licenses or proper oversight,” he said. “This not only robs the government of valuable revenue but also results in environmental degradation and endangers local communities.” He stressed the need for stronger regulations, better enforcement, and community participation in safeguarding the state’s natural wealth.
Representing the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Hon. Ishaya John Dabari, Ph.D., also addressed the summit. He acknowledged that the current level of resource exploitation in Adamawa is “alarmingly low” compared to the state’s potential. Hon. Dabari commended the summit organizers, emphasizing that the event aligns perfectly with the state government’s broader economic agenda. “This summit will help raise awareness, attract investment, and encourage responsible mining practices,” he said. “By taking these steps, we can boost our revenue streams and drive sustainable economic growth for the benefit of our people.”
The event featured an engaging panel discussion on solid minerals and innovative agricultural models. Experts and stakeholders explored practical solutions for harnessing Adamawa’s mineral wealth, improving mining practices, and integrating technological advancements in agriculture. In addition, the summit included an exhibition that showcased the mineral and agricultural potential of the region, providing participants with valuable insights into business and investment opportunities.
As the event concluded, a group photograph was taken, symbolizing the collective commitment of experts, government officials, and stakeholders to driving economic transformation in Adamawa and the broader Northeast region.
The 2025 African Mineral Summit has placed a significant spotlight on Adamawa’s vast mineral resources, highlighting both its opportunities and challenges. With the right policies, increased public awareness, and the elimination of illegal mining activities, the state has the potential to experience a new era of economic growth. If the knowledge gaps are bridged and regulatory measures strengthened, Adamawa’s mineral wealth could be the key to lifting thousands of its citizens out of poverty and into economic prosperity.
