Nigeria, France Sign Agreement to Boost Mining Sector

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Republic of France have entered into a significant agreement to enhance collaboration in the mining sector. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France, aims to promote sustainable mining practices, develop the value chain of critical minerals, and address environmental challenges in the sector.

The partnership focuses on critical minerals like copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are essential for clean energy technologies. The agreement also includes the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits across Nigeria, a pressing issue in light of recent mining accidents that claimed at least 65 lives.

In a statement by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the MoU outlines plans for joint research, training, and student exchange programs to facilitate knowledge transfer between the two countries. The agreement also emphasizes the need to reduce the environmental impact of mining through projects aimed at cutting carbon emissions, conserving water, and mitigating climate change effects.

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The deal provides for co-financed ventures by public and private entities to secure critical mineral supplies and support decarbonized energy initiatives. It also underscores the importance of adopting international best practices to ensure transparency and improve conditions for communities affected by mining activities.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, France’s Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Critical Ores and Metals. Dr. Alake described the partnership as a key step in repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector for global competitiveness and attracting French investors.

Through regular training programs and events, administrators in the sector are expected to enhance their capacities to manage the value chain effectively. The collaboration represents a significant boost to Nigeria’s efforts to make its mining sector safer, more sustainable, and internationally competitive.