Business
Nigeria must move beyond raw exports, NEF2026 organisers insist
NEF2026 will bring together policymakers, investors and innovators around the theme "Upscaling Value Addition for Sustainable Industrialization," spotlighting opportunities in critical minerals, clean energy and manufacturing as Nigeria seeks to move beyond raw material exports.
NEF2026 will bring together policymakers, investors and innovators around the theme "Upscaling Value Addition for Sustainable Industrialization," spotlighting opportunities in critical minerals, clean energy and manufacturing as Nigeria seeks to move beyond raw material exports.
NEF2026 to Convene Policymakers and Investors Around Value Addition
NEF2026 is set to bring together policymakers, investors, manufacturers, energy experts and innovators to explore how value addition can unlock Nigeria's industrial potential, create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth. With the theme "Upscaling Value Addition for Sustainable Industrialization," the forum will focus on strategies for transforming Nigeria's natural resources into higher-value products through local processing, manufacturing and innovation.
The event comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its industrial base, attract investments and position itself as a competitive player in the global economy.
— NEF2026 Organisers
Critical Minerals, Clean Energy and a UN Lithium Report Take Centre Stage
The conference will also spotlight multi-billion-dollar opportunities across critical minerals, clean energy, technology, agriculture, infrastructure and sustainable finance, while fostering partnerships capable of accelerating industrial development. A major highlight will be the unveiling of a United Nations Economic Commission for Africa report on lithium value addition in Nigeria, alongside an energy innovation pitch contest showcasing solutions from some of the country's brightest tertiary institution students.