At the African Leadership Public Service Excellence Awards, held at the Proshansky Auditorium of the City University of New York during the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, was celebrated for his outstanding contributions.
Hosted by Africa Leadership Magazine, this prestigious event honors individuals who have africa-infrastructure/” title=”Unlocking …'s Natural Wealth: …iving Green Investment to Power Sustainable Infrastructure Development”>made remarkable strides in governance, reform, and public service throughout Africa.
Dr. Alake was bestowed with the African Leadership Public Service Excellence Award for his exceptional role in revitalizing Nigeria’s mining industry and driving sectoral reforms.
As reported by his media representative, Segun Tomori, the award was presented by Honourable Dr. Rosalyn Henderson-Myers, a South Carolina House of Representatives member, on Wednesday.
In an unexpected gesture during the ceremony, the South Carolina House of Representatives also granted Dr. Alake a Certificate of Recognition, applauding his enduring dedication to Nigeria’s progress.
Signed by Speaker G. Murrell Smith Jr. and Clerk Charles Reid on September 24, 2025, the certificate acknowledged Dr. Alake’s extensive experience as a journalist, media strategist, and public administrator. It read, “We, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, commend you for your significant contributions to Nigerian politics and wish you continued success in your future endeavors.”
Hon. Aaron T. Manaigo, a former Republican State Senator from New York, delivered a tribute highlighting Dr. Alake’s illustrious career spanning over 40 years.
Starting as a journalist, columnist, and editor, Dr. Alake transitioned into public service as an Information Adviser to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola during the 1993 presidential campaign. He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement and was instrumental in establishing the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). His public service journey further included serving as Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to then-Governor Bola Tinubu in Lagos State, culminating in his current role as Minister of Solid Minerals Development under President Tinubu’s leadership.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Alake expressed heartfelt gratitude to the award organizers and the South Carolina House of Representatives. He pledged that this recognition would strengthen his resolve to champion transparency, accountability, and excellence in governance. He highlighted several reforms in the solid minerals sector, such as the deployment of Mining Marshals and satellite-based monitoring systems to combat illegal mining activities. Additionally, he mentioned the cancellation of dormant mining licenses to curb speculation and the digitization of mining operations to enhance transparency and facilitate investor engagement.
Dr. Alake reiterated the government’s commitment to value addition, emphasizing Nigeria’s shift from exporting raw minerals to fostering domestic processing and manufacturing. This strategy aims to generate employment, promote skill development, and empower local economies. He also referenced his advocacy at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh in January 2024, which led to the creation of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), where he serves as the founding chairman.
Addressing global investors, Dr. Alake underscored the immense potential within Africa’s solid minerals sector and encouraged increased investment to stimulate economic growth and sustainable livelihoods across the continent.
This recognition further cements Nigeria’s emerging status on the international stage as a leader in economic reform and innovation within vital sectors.
