The Federal Government of Nigeria and France have signed an agreement to work together on developing critical minerals in the solid minerals sector.
This agreement focuses on minerals like copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are vital for clean energy technologies.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France. Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, signed on behalf of Nigeria, while Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, the Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Critical Ores and Metals, signed for France.
The agreement aims to promote sustainable mining practices and reduce environmental damage from mining. This includes addressing over 2,000 abandoned mining pits across Nigeria, which have caused environmental and safety issues.
A statement from Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, outlined the benefits of the MOU.
“A key component of the MOU is the promotion of sustainable mining activities by executing projects and programmes that reduce the environmental impact of mining on carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change,” the statement said.
It also focuses on joint extractive and processing projects through co-financing by public and private entities to diversify and secure the supply of critical minerals.
The agreement includes collaboration on research, training, and exchange programmes for Nigerian and French students to improve skills and transfer knowledge in mining practices.
Dr. Alake described the partnership as a step forward for Nigeria’s mining sector, saying it aligns with the Tinubu administration’s goal of making the sector globally competitive.
“This partnership will help us open up the mining sector to French investors while also improving the lives of people affected by mining activities,” he said.
Both nations have committed to using international best practices to ensure transparency and better conditions for local communities impacted by mining. Training seminars and events will also be held to enhance the skills of officials managing the sector.
