by Ikem Okems
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has pledged to strengthen public communication of government policies after receiving a Fellowship from the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), a recognition of his contributions to strategic communication, public engagement and national development.
The fellowship was presented to Alake in Abuja, where he said the honour underscored the importance of effective communication in governance and reinforced his ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability and stakeholder engagement as Nigeria seeks to expand its mining sector and diversify its economy beyond oil.
“I will continue to support improved public communication of government policies to ensure Nigerians are better informed and actively engaged in our reform efforts,” Alake said.
Africa’s largest economy has been pursuing reforms aimed at unlocking the potential of its vast mineral resources, with the government positioning the solid minerals sector as a key pillar of economic diversification, job creation and industrial growth.
Alake said sustained communication with citizens, investors, host communities and industry stakeholders remains essential to advancing the government’s reform agenda and building confidence in the sector.
Presenting the fellowship, ARCON Director-General Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo described the award as recognition of Alake’s long-standing contributions to journalism, strategic communication and public service.
He said the minister had combined policy innovation with purposeful public engagement to help reposition the solid minerals sector as an important driver of economic transformation.
According to Fadolapo, Alake’s communication strategy has helped strengthen investor confidence and public trust in ongoing reforms while increasing awareness of government efforts to curb illegal mining, promote mineral beneficiation, encourage value addition and attract responsible investment.
He also highlighted Alake’s career before government service, noting that the minister earned national recognition in journalism and strategic communications for professionalism, integrity and commitment to nation-building.
The recognition comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to develop its mining industry, which policymakers see as critical to reducing dependence on crude oil revenues and attracting both domestic and foreign investment. Analysts increasingly view effective communication and stakeholder engagement as essential components of resource-sector reforms, particularly in emerging markets seeking to balance economic growth, environmental responsibility and community interests.
