This initiative underscores Nigeria’s dedication to revitalizing its mining industry by leveraging international partnerships to harness its vast untapped hydrocarbon resources.
Kehinde Bamigbetan, special adviser to Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced that France has agreed to fund the geological data exploration efforts of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA).
This funding arrangement stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on mining activities signed between the two nations in December 2024.
Tinubu’s France visit yields positive output
It is worth noting that during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France last year, the Solid Minerals Ministry committed to developing joint projects aimed at enhancing and diversifying the critical minerals value chain in both countries.
On December 1, 2024, Nigeria and France signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at diversifying critical value chains within the solid minerals sectors of both nations during a diplomatic visit.
This partnership highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by resource-dependent economies amid a rapidly changing global energy landscape.
Recently, both countries outlined specific plans to upgrade Nigeria’s geological infrastructure, facilitate technology transfer, and promote sustainable mining practices during discussions held on the sidelines of the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, Benjamin Gallezot, led their respective delegations in exploring policy alignment, knowledge-sharing, and investment opportunities within Nigeria’s mining sector.
Challenges in Nigeria’s mining sector
Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges in its mining sector, including declining production, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to advanced exploration technologies.
This collaboration aims to bolster Nigeria’s ability to explore and assess its mineral resources more effectively.
France, with its expertise in the mining and energy sectors, is well-positioned to assist Nigeria in overcoming the challenges of outdated infrastructure and limited access to advanced technologies.
Olusegun Ige, the Director-General of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), noted that the absence of advanced technological equipment has delayed the exploration of extensive mineralized areas.
He emphasized the necessity of upgrading the laboratory to allow for the use of the latest tools to analyze extracted rocks and produce precise data.
Highlighting the importance of training and skills transfer, Professor Ige stressed the need to cultivate local expertise with global exposure, as mining is inherently a worldwide industry.
Nigeria’s request for funding in geological exploration reflects its commitment to strengthening its relationship with France and addressing gaps in resource assessment.
