The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) has begun 61th Annual International Conference and Exhibition(AICE)in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.
The conference, tagged “Uyo 2026” is scheduled to hold from March 22nd to 27th, 2026 at Ceedapeg Hotels and Suites, Ewet Housing Estate Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking with newsmen in Uyo on Friday March 19, the President, Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, Ms Rose Ndong noted that a nation like Nigeria with natural resources, must adopt innovative, efficient, and sustainable approaches in managing available resources, while also building infrastructure to support economic growth and environmental stability.
The President argued that the theme of the conference, “Optimizing Efficiency, Sustainability and Resilience in Natural Resource Management and Infrastructure Development,” is apt as the conference will explore areas like maximizing benefits of interdisciplinary approaches to energy and mineral development; geosciences and flood control; geospatial analysis and remote sensing in mineral exploration and extraction; current trends in geoscientific discovery and innovation; and role of geosciences in the construction industry.
“You will recall that in late January this year, precisely on the 23rd, during the 261st Council Meeting of NMGS, also hosted in Uyo, we formally announced the decision to bring this prestigious international conference to Akwa Ibom State.
“The conference is expected to attract a distinguished array of participants from across Nigeria and beyond.
“We will be particularly honoured to have the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, as our Chief Host.
“We also expect the presence of Honourable Ministers, top government officials, captains of industry in the oil, gas, and mining sectors, renowned academics, researchers, and geoscience professionals, as well as international delegates and development partners.” The president said.
The President revealed that the highlights of the Annual General Meeting and pre-conference discourse will include: Business discussions; insightful technical sessions and paper presentations; high-level panel and plenary discussions; exhibitions; engagements for women in NMGS, young professionals and Students in the geosciences, and networking opportunities for professionals, investors, and policymakers.
Other features of the conference will include induction of new members; spouses programmes; Awards night, Fellows night and Variety night and Field excursion to notable geosites across Akwa Ibom State, especially ARISE Palm Resort, The Ikot Ebom Itam Clay Deposits and Ibeno Beach and Waterfronts.
According to the President, the conference, apart from stimulating the local economy through increased patronage of hotels, transportation, and other services, it will open up investment opportunities in the solid minerals, energy, and infrastructure sectors as well as promote the state’s rich geotourism potential and natural endowments to a global audience.
