Nigeria and UK Collaborate to Develop Mining Sector
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Kingdom have jointly announced plans to establish a technical working group with the aim of enhancing partnerships for the development of critical mineral deposits in Nigeria. This decision arose from a meeting between the 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.
Subsequent to the initial discussion, a delegation from the British High Commission, led by Deputy High Commissioner Johnny Baxter, visited the minister to further explore opportunities for collaboration in the mining sector. Minister Alake reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in the mining sector and implementing a new security architecture for natural resources.
A statement from the Special Adviser to the minister on media, Segun Tomori, indicated that Deputy High Commissioner Baxter commended Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and acknowledged the Minister’s initiatives to bring visibility to the mining sector. Consequently, both parties have agreed to establish a joint technical working group to facilitate the partnership and attract investments in the mining sector.
The delegation from the British High Commission included political counsellor Tom Burge, Senior Political Adviser Wale Adebajo, and Trade Market Access Lead from the UK Department for Business and Trade, Simeon Umukoro. Their presence underscored the UK’s keen interest in exploring opportunities for collaboration and investment in Nigeria’s mining sector.
The establishment of the joint technical working group signifies a significant step towards fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between Nigeria and the UK in the development of the mining sector. This collaboration is expected to contribute to the overall growth and diversification of Nigeria’s economy while also attracting foreign investments and expertise in the mining industry.
As Nigeria continues to explore opportunities for economic development, partnerships with international stakeholders such as the UK will play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of the country’s mineral resources. The establishment of the joint technical working group reflects both Nigeria and the UK’s commitment to driving sustainable development and growth in the mining sector.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Nigeria and the UK holds great promise for the future of the mining industry in Nigeria. The establishment of the joint technical working group underscores the shared commitment to fostering partnerships and attracting investments that will contribute to the continued development and growth of the mining sector.
