Enhancing Collaboration: Nigeria and US Join Forces for Mining Development
In an effort to enhance cooperation and collaboration in the development of the mining sector, Nigeria and the United States have established a working group to delineate the modalities of their partnership.
Subsequent to a meeting in Abuja with Mr. David Greene, the United States Deputy Chief of Mission, the Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, led a governmental delegation to Cape Town, South Africa, for discussions with a delegation of the US Government, led by Mr. Amos Hochstein, the Senior Advisor to the US President on Energy and Infrastructure.
During the meeting, Hochstein underscored the longstanding rapport between Nigeria and the US, expressing a keen interest in collaborating with Nigeria to attract investments in the mining industry. He also emphasized the significance of addressing infrastructural needs and providing technical assistance to enhance the appeal of mining investments.
In response, the Minister commended the US for its interest in Nigeria’s mining sector, noting that a collaboration in mining development would not only strengthen bilateral relations but also lead to mutual benefits for both countries. He proposed the establishment of a joint working group to facilitate collaboration and information sharing.
Regarding financing, the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Ms. Fatima Shinkafi, underscored the resources available for investment in the mining sector, emphasizing that the SMDF has the capacity to co-invest and contribute significantly to the development of critical minerals.
As a result of the meeting, both countries nominated members to form the working group, which will commence with deliberations in the near future.
The collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in the mining sector is a positive step towards unlocking the full potential of the industry. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both nations, the partnership has the capacity to drive growth, foster innovation, and create opportunities for sustainable mining development.
The formalization of the working group signifies a commitment to long-term collaboration and sets the stage for the exchange of knowledge, technology, and investment in the mining ecosystem. With a focus on creating an enabling environment and addressing infrastructural challenges, the partnership aims to attract investments, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the economic development of both countries.
As Nigeria and the United States embark on this collaborative journey, the potential for significant progress in the mining sector is within reach. The exchange of ideas, the sharing of best practices, and the commitment to mutual benefit pave the way for a fruitful partnership that will yield positive outcomes for the industry and the economies of both nations.
