US and Nigeria Join Forces to Boost Mining Sector Development
The Government of Nigeria and the United States (U.S.) have reached an agreement to establish a collaborative working committee focused on advancing the mining sector in Nigeria. This decision was made during a meeting between the Nigerian delegation, headed by Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and the U.S. delegation, led by Amos Hochstein, Senior Advisor to the U.S. President on Energy and Infrastructure.
Dr. Alake emphasized the goal of enhancing cooperation with the U.S., stressing the importance of mutual collaboration. In response, the U.S. delegation expressed their dedication to supporting Nigeria in training its security forces to protect mining sites and showed interest in investing in the country’s mineral extraction and processing.
Furthermore, Hochstein conveyed the U.S.’s intention to work alongside Nigeria to attract investments in the mining sector, including infrastructure development, technical guidance, and various investment opportunities to advance mining operations. He also revealed the U.S.’s partnership with the Federal Government to fund clean energy solutions.
Recognizing the U.S. as a longstanding ally of Nigeria, Alake affirmed that the envisioned partnership for mining development would reinforce bilateral relations, bringing mutual benefits to both countries. He also stated that Nigeria is implementing reforms to create an enabling environment in the sector to ensure a positive and different experience from the past.
In related news, Minister Dele Alake was appointed as the inaugural Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) during his participation in the 30th edition of Investing in Africa Indaba in South Africa. The AMSG consists of ministers of mineral development from 15 African countries, and Alake’s leadership position underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering partnerships within the African continent.
Overall, the establishment of the collaborative working committee between the U.S. and Nigeria signals a significant step towards promoting the development of the mining sector in Nigeria. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both nations, this partnership holds promising prospects for advancing the mining industry and fostering economic growth in Nigeria.
