Nigeria and Saudi Arabia aim to enhance geological collaboration by using advancements from Saudi firms in mineral exploration. Discussions highlight partnerships that maximise both countries’ economic strengths, notably in gold and lithium. Investment in Nigeria’s mining sector is being encouraged to facilitate the export of finished products.
Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have revitalised efforts to enhance their geological agencies’ capabilities, leveraging advancements in mineral exploration by Saudi firms. During a meeting at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Mining Minister Bandar Al-Khorayef confirmed collaboration between the government and private sector to introduce new technologies for mineral exploration.
Engr. Al-Khorayef responded to a proposal from Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, who advocated for partnerships capitalising on economic advantages. Alake highlighted that both countries could benefit from the sector’s value chain, especially through Nigeria’s access to Saudi Arabia’s gold market.
Nigeria’s minister, alongside his finance counterpart Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, engaged Saudi Chamber of Commerce officials, seeking investments in Nigeria’s mining sector, particularly focusing on lithium and iron ore reserves. To enhance investment security, Alake assured the provision of relevant mineral data via the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency.
Alake noted the global industry’s pivot towards electric machinery that utilises lithium batteries, positioning Nigeria as a vital supplier of essential minerals. He emphasised that partnerships with Saudi investors would bolster the export of refined industrial products, drawing parallels with Saudi investments in steel production.
He cited examples of iron ore processing in Nigeria, showcasing existing successful companies, and mentioned the availability of advanced laboratories in Nigeria for mineral analysis, contributing to efficient mining operations.
The collaboration between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia aims to enhance the capabilities of their geological sectors, particularly in mineral exploration. This initiative comes against the backdrop of Saudi Arabia’s advancements in mining technology and Nigeria’s significant mineral resources, including lithium and iron ore, crucial for today’s electric machinery market.
The renewed collaboration between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia seeks to leverage technological advancements in mining to improve the sector’s capabilities. By integrating efforts, both nations aim to expand economic opportunities, specifically in mineral exploration and processing, ensuring mutual benefits and investment security.
Original Source: leadership.ng