The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have announced the creation of a collaborative technical working group with the objective of coordinating efforts towards the development of critical mineral deposits in Nigeria.
This decision was reached following a meeting between UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden and Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, during the Mines and Money Conference in London. At the meeting, the UK expressed their interest in Nigeria’s Lithium and emphasized their desire to strengthen partnerships in the mining sector.
Subsequently, a delegation from the British High Commission, headed by Deputy High Commissioner Johnny Baxter, visited the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to finalizing the details of collaboration that would lead to investments in Nigeria’s mining sector.
During the visit, Minister Alake highlighted the administration’s efforts to enhance the ease of doing business in the mining sector and implement a new security architecture to protect natural resources. He also underscored the establishment of a private-sector-led Nigerian Mining Corporation as part of the initiatives to improve governance in the sector.
In response, Baxter commended Nigeria’s diversification efforts and acknowledged the Minister’s role in promoting the visibility of the mining sector, which has garnered international attention.
Both parties agreed to establish a joint technical working group to facilitate the collaboration and attract investments in the Nigerian mining sector.
The delegation from the British High Commission included political counselor Tom Burge, Senior Political Adviser Wale Adebajo, and Trade Market Access Lead Simeon Umukoro.
This collaborative effort between Nigeria and the UK signifies a significant step towards fostering sustainable development in the mining sector, and it is expected to create opportunities for both countries to leverage their expertise and resources for mutual benefit. The establishment of the joint technical working group reflects a commitment to driving economic growth and promoting responsible mining practices in Nigeria.
As the partnership progresses, it is important to recognize the potential benefits for both countries and the positive impact on the mining industry. With a strategic focus on collaboration and investment, Nigeria and the UK have the opportunity to strengthen their position in the global mining market and contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.
By formalizing this collaboration through the joint technical working group, Nigeria and the UK are paving the way for a new era of cooperation in mining development, setting the stage for a mutually beneficial partnership that will yield long-term economic and social benefits.