The recently concluded 13th Sustainability in the Extractive Industries (SITEI) Conference 2024 brought together leaders in innovation, collaboration, and foresight. Held both virtually and in-person at the Ford Foundation office on Tuesday, 22 October 2024, the Conference focused on the compelling theme “Extractives for Green Growth: Their Strategic Role in the Just Transition to an Inclusive Green Economy.” Convened by the CSR-in-Action Group, the event challenged traditional perspectives, presenting forward-looking solutions that pave the way for a sustainable future.
This year’s SITEI Conference stood out for its spirit of collaboration, which was strongly supported by partners and sponsors such as Access Bank, Ford Foundation, the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI),, Zenera Consulting,, and other key stakeholders. The support of these partners underscored a shared commitment to transforming the extractive sector into a driver of sustainability.
The event featured three thought-provoking panel sessions:
1. “Multi-Stakeholder Engagement in Policy Development for the Shift to Green Growth”
2. “Innovative Financing Models for Green Extractive Projects in Africa”
3. “Breaking the Resource Curse: Solutions for an African Extractive Renaissance”
Leading industry experts, including Dele Ayanleke, National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria; Dr. Peter Hollings, Chair in Mineral Exploration at Lakehead University, Ontario; and Dr. Olubunmi Akinlade, Technical Advisor, Office of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), shared their valuable insights during these sessions.
During one of the discussions, Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, emphasised the importance of educating marginalised communities on sustainability policies, stating: “Community development agreements are essential for sustainable mining operations”.
The 2024 SITEI Conference concluded with a renewed commitment to leveraging the extractive industries as a catalyst for green growth and inclusive development. Participants emphasised the strategic role of the sector in driving the just transition to a greener economy, ensuring that policies and practices are aligned with sustainable, equitable, and responsible resource management. The outcomes of the Conference will serve as a roadmap for stakeholders, guiding their efforts to integrate innovative solutions that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and social inclusion, ultimately advancing the vision of a just and sustainable future.
As we reflect on the success of SITEI 2024, we extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to this transformative event. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn for ongoing updates on the continued impact of the SITEI Conference and other sustainability initiatives.