By Hosanna Eseose
The 2026 Africa Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIST) concluded in Abuja with renewed commitments to accelerate Africa’s mineral development, as the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, urged stakeholders to translate agreements reached at the Summit into measurable outcomes.
The Summit with the theme, “One Africa, One Resource Vision,” was held at the State House Banquet Hall from Wednesday 24th to Thursday 25th June, 2026.
In his closing remarks, Dr Alake said the Summit had moved beyond being a platform for discussions to becoming a catalyst for concrete achievements, citing the signing of key agreements and the ratification of instruments establishing the African Mineral Strategy Group (AMSG).
“These AFNIS events have not just been talking shops. They have actually been platforms and avenues of results,” he said, expressing confidence that the initiatives launched during the 48-hour summit would yield tangible benefits before the next edition.
Dr. Alake encouraged African countries not to be discouraged by challenges, but to face challenges as they will be reinvigorated towards achieving their goals.
Secretary-General of AMSG of Uganda, Moses Michael Engadu, handed over the instrument of ratification, declaration of assumption of office, ceremonial gavel, charter and certificate confirming Nigeria’s election, charging Alake to lead the continent’s mineral development agenda with transparency and commitment.
The Minister pledged to steer Africa towards greater prosperity through stronger regional cooperation.
Representing Simon Nkom, Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, Mrs. Hannatu Indo Muhammad stressed that Community Development Agreements remain essential for ensuring local employment, skills transfer, infrastructure, healthcare, education and community participation in mining projects, thereby reducing conflicts and promoting sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Oil Dynamix Limited, Dr. Vincent Amude, unveiled a satellite-based mineral exploration technology powered by artificial intelligence, claiming it can deliver up to 85 per cent accuracy at significantly lower costs while helping African countries unlock their vast mineral resources faster and more sustainably.
Abuja Times reports that the Summit also spotlighted strategies for inclusive mining and technological innovation.