NEST Conference 2026

The Executive Director of the Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST), Professor Emmanuel Nzegbule, said the theme of the 2026 conference was chosen to address growing environmental, governance, and security concerns linked to Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy through the solid minerals sector.

Professor Emmanuel Nzegbule explained that while climate change has remained a major focus of environmental discussions in recent years, NEST considered it important to highlight the environmental and conflict-related challenges associated with mining activities across the country.

He said the conference was designed to bring together policymakers, researchers, industry stakeholders, civil society organisations, and host communities to discuss key issues affecting the mining sector. Discussions, he noted, would focus on legal, institutional, and governance challenges, as well as strategies for promoting sustainable mining practices and addressing pollution and mining-related conflicts.

Professor Emmanuel Nzegbule expressed optimism that the conference outcomes would support the development of a more productive, sustainable, and environmentally responsible mining industry in Nigeria.

He also appreciated the keynote speaker, Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, lead paper presenters, and other contributors, while thanking the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, for approving the use of the commission’s auditorium for the conference.