**Australian Partnership Boosts Women's Empowerment in Nigeria's Mining Sector** In a significant move to promote gender inclusion and equality in Nigeria's solid minerals sector, the Nigerian Indigenous Women in Mining and Natural Resource Organisation (NIWIMNRO) has received funding support from the Australian High Commission's Direct Aid Program (DAP). This initiative is set to empower and support women artisans involved in mining, tackling socio-economic, health, and safety challenges they face. The funding, valued at a significant amount, comes as part of Australia's broader partnership with Nigeria to strengthen the capacity, safety, and gender inclusion of the mining sector. This project will focus on addressing the practical challenges faced by women in artisanal mining through community-led interventions. The aim is to ensure that these women can participate safely and productively in the industry. By supporting indigenous women miners, NIWIMNRO hopes to contribute to building more resilient and stable economies in Nigeria. Empowering women miners is expected to have a ripple effect on entire communities, improving livelihoods, securing families, and giving women a voice in mining governance and decision-making. Felicia Dairo, NIWIMNRO's executive director, expressed gratitude to the Australian High Commission for their support, which she believes reflects Australia's commitment to gender equality and inclusive development. "Empowering indigenous women artisanal miners goes beyond the mine site," she said. "It contributes to building more resilient communities, where women's voices are valued and their contributions are recognised." This partnership is a welcome development in Nigeria's extractive sector, where women have historically been marginalised. With this funding, NIWIMNRO hopes to make a lasting impact on women, families, and mining communities across the country. As Nigeria continues to explore its vast mineral resources, it is essential that the benefits of this endeavour are shared equitably among all stakeholders, including women.