L-R: Dr. Jani Ibrahim, National President of Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Mines, NACCIMA; Dr. Ije Jidenma, Chairman, Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce; Austin Menegbo, Country Manager, Segilola Resources Operating Limited; Folake Ademiluyi, Sector Head, Power and Infrastructure, Stanbic IBTC Bank and Adebola Seriki, Sector Head, Diversified Industrials, Stanbic IBTC Bank, during the 2025 Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) Breakfast Session, hosted by Stanbic IBTC Bank, held recently in Lagos.
Stanbic IBTC Bank recently hosted the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce’s September Breakfast Forum in Lagos, focusing on the potential of the mining sector in Africa. Themed “Unlocking Africa’s Hidden Wealth: Mining as a Catalyst for Bilateral Investment,” the event gathered industry leaders and investors to discuss economic opportunities in Nigeria and beyond.
The forum served as a pivotal opportunity to address the significant role that mining can play in the economic landscape of both Nigeria and South Africa. Key discussions centered on strategies for promoting collaborative investments, enhancing sustainability in mining operations, and identifying areas that are ripe for potential partnerships. Among the experts present were seasoned entrepreneurs and policymakers who shared their insights on best practices and innovative approaches to responsibly harnessing Africa’s mineral wealth.
Key discussions centred on strategies for promoting collaborative investments and enhancing sustainability in mining operations.
Speaking during a panel discussion, Adebola Seriki, Sector Head, Diversified Industrials, Stanbic IBTC Bank, highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement in building partnerships across Nigeria and beyond. He expressed confidence in the potential for impactful solutions despite existing challenges.
“At Stanbic IBTC Bank, we are committed to a robust strategy for the mining sector. Our focus is on meaningful stakeholder engagement as we aim to connect communities and foster collaboration across Nigeria and Africa. While challenges exist, we believe in our potential to build a stronger future together, leveraging our partnerships and insights to create impactful solutions to drive growth in the Nigerian mining sector Creating partnerships across real stakeholders within the industry is our priority,” Adebola stated.
Participants emphasised the necessity of strategic investments to elevate the mining sector, which holds vast untapped resources critical for future growth. Conversations highlighted various avenues for cooperation, suggesting that leveraging the strengths of both nations could lead to fruitful investments that bolster job creation and stimulate economic advancement in the region.
In his keynote address, Austin Menegbo, Country Manager, Segilola Resources, emphasised the need for responsible practices in mining and the collaboration between local stakeholders and international financiers. He shared his experiences illustrating the significance of a balanced approach to harnessing Africa’s mineral wealth.
Menegbo states, “Our mission in soil exploration is to show that nature can be responsibly harnessed for a transparent and sustainable gold mining model. I have seen Africa’s hidden wealth and understand that success hinges on a synergy of vision, collaboration, and commitment, not just capital.”
“When communities thrive, investors are protected; and when investors are protected, cash flows. That embodies the essence of bilateral investment.”
Stanbic IBTC Bank’s collaboration with the Chamber reflects the bank’s ongoing dedication to supporting initiatives that positively impact the lives of Africans. By fostering dialogue through such forums, Stanbic IBTC demonstrates its deep-rooted commitment to enhancing economic resilience and stability within the region. The bank’s proactive approach aims not only to provide financial services but also to act as a catalyst for sustainable developmental practices in Africa’s mining industry.
As participants reflect on the insights gained from the forum, there is a shared recognition that sustained efforts are necessary to drive the mining sector forward. The enthusiasm exhibited during panel discussions signals a promising future, one where innovation, investment, and responsible practices converge to unlock Africa’s true potential. The partnership between Stanbic IBTC and the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce serves as a demonstration of their commitment to achieving this vision.
The September Breakfast Forum not only highlighted the vast opportunities within Africa’s mining industry but also reinforced the necessity of collaborative efforts to foster growth. The commitment shown by all involved instils hope that, through strategic partnerships and dialogue, Africa can indeed unlock its hidden wealth and pave the way for a brighter economic future.
