Segilola Resources Operating Limited, operator of Nigeria’s first commercial gold mine, emerged as one of the biggest winners at the maiden edition of the Solid Minerals Excellence Awards (SOMEA) 2026, clinching three awards that reinforce its growing influence in the country’s mining sector.
The awards ceremony, held on May 14 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, brought together stakeholders across Nigeria’s solid minerals industry to recognise companies and individuals driving innovation, operational excellence and sustainable development in the sector.
SROL secured awards for Gold Mining Company of the Year, Outstanding Gold Producer of the Year in the main category, and Outstanding Gold Producer of the Year under the Mines Inspectorate category. The company was also among the most nominated firms at the event, receiving five nominations in total.
Speaking after the awards, Ijeoma Ohiaeri, corporate affairs manager at SROL, said the recognition reflected the company’s commitment to responsible mining and operational excellence.
“We are proud to receive these awards in recognition of our impact and efforts. However, our commitment to excellence and responsible mining goes far beyond accolades; it is deeply rooted in the company’s ethos and values,” she said.
The recognition comes amid rising attention on Nigeria’s mining industry as the government seeks to diversify the economy away from oil dependence and increase the sector’s contribution to gross domestic product.
SROL’s flagship operation, the Segilola Gold Mine located in Osun State, remains a key symbol of Nigeria’s ambitions to build a commercially viable gold mining industry. In 2025, the mine produced 94,130 ounces of gold, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s leading gold producers.
The company also said its health and safety practices played a role in its recognition at the awards. According to SROL, its occupational health and safety framework, powered by its “SROLSafe” management system, has strengthened operational safety standards across its mining operations.
Beyond production, the company said it continues to invest in host communities through development initiatives and stakeholder engagement programmes aimed at sustaining long-term relationships and maintaining its social licence to operate.
Industry analysts say recognitions such as SOMEA could help spotlight operators seen as setting benchmarks for transparency, sustainability and operational standards in Nigeria’s underdeveloped mining ecosystem.
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