Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) has announced the launch of its National Jewellery Making Competition 2025, a premier event within the upcoming Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (GGCE) 2025.
The initiative is designed to celebrate and promote Nigerian artistry in jewellery design, emphasising the use of locally sourced gemstones and showcasing African elegance on a global stage.
Founder and National President of WIMIN, Janet Adeyemi, highlighted the competition’s role in advancing the central theme of GGCE 2025: “Accelerating collaboration for sustainable Gold and Gemstone development in Africa.”
She underscored the critical importance of partnerships with industry stakeholders to achieve this shared vision.
Chairperson, GGCE 2025, Adesuwa Dan-Princewill, said the competition is open to both emerging and professional jewellery artists.
“This event is a platform to unearth and spotlight exceptional talent across the country,” she stated.
A key partner in this collaborative effort is Founder and CEO of Crafties Hobbycraft Ltd, Oluseyi Abdullahi, who serves as a longstanding consultant to WIMIN on jewellery development. Drawing on her professional training from institutions like Swarovski and the London Jewellery School, Abdullahi brings a unique blend of technical expertise and mentorship to the competition.
Emphasising the profound impact of the craft, Abdullahi said: “Jewellery tells stories; it reflects personality, culture, and celebrates identity. Through this competition, we aim to spotlight new voices in jewellery craftsmanship and affirm the value of Nigerian creativity on the global stage.”
The competition’s theme for 2025 is “Echoes of Heritage,” and it will feature two main categories: Bead Artists and Metal Artists. Finalists will have their creations showcased at GGCE 2025 from November 26–28, 2025, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.
Prizes for winners will include awards, curated gemstone gift packs, extensive media exposure, valuable mentoring sessions, and opportunities to retail their collections through select platforms.
A member of WIMIN, Folakemi Akinleye, who is also a member of the GGCE steering committee, hinted that the impressive credentials of the judges will be announced soon.
This competition is poised to be a vibrant celebration of innovation, local resources, and artisanal excellence. It promises to provide significant visibility, recognition, and business opportunities for all participants.
