The ECOWAS draft policy on mineral development is advancing as the Energy & Mines Directorate convenes a National Experts Meeting in Lagos, Nigeria, from 10 to 15 November 2025. The meeting aims to finalize the review of the Draft Revised ECOWAS Mineral Development Policy and its Implementation Matrix (Revised EMDP, 2024), reflecting the latest west African minerals update.
National Experts Collaborate on Mineral Development Policy
This marks the third National Experts Review Meeting on the Draft Revised EMDP, 2024. Senior officials from ECOWAS Member States’ Ministries responsible for Mineral Resources Development, the ECOWAS Federation of Chamber of Mines (EFEDCOM), and Commission staff are actively participating. The meeting offers a platform for knowledge exchange, debate, and refinement of the policy framework, ensuring alignment with regional and international standards.
Historical Context and Policy Significance
The original ECOWAS Mineral Development Policy and Implementation Plan (EMDP, 2012) was adopted in February 2012 under Supplementary Act A/SP.16/02/12, implementing Article 31.1 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty of 1993 concerning natural resources. Article 31.2d further emphasizes that Member States must coordinate programs for the development and utilization of mineral and water resources.
Given the dynamic nature of the mineral sector, ECOWAS deemed it necessary to update the policy after more than twelve years. The mineral development policy aims to foster an efficient, sustainable, and competitive Mineral Resources Sector across the region.
Aligning with Regional and Global Standards
The meeting allows national experts and policymakers to engage in detailed discussions, share expertise, and refine the Draft Revised EMDP, 2024. The goal is to ensure the policy supports ECOWAS Vision 2050, the African Mining Vision, and global best practices while addressing the specific challenges and opportunities within the Community.
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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This story was first reported by ECOWAS. Read the full article here.
