Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule has called for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector to enhance its potential. Speaking at the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society Annual Conference in Abuja, he advocated for reforms akin to those in the oil and gas industry, emphasising the need for modernization and liberalisation to attract investment.

Governor Sule highlighted Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and criticized existing policies that impede growth. Reflecting on his oil industry experience, he underscored the importance of structured revenue-sharing and industry regulations to secure adequate returns for mining states.

During his term, he discovered that despite 416 mining licenses granted in Nasarawa, the state was receiving no significant financial returns, prompting him to challenge the National Economic Council regarding the lack of revenue compared to the oil sector. Recognising flaws in the licensing process, he issued an executive order to ensure that all minerals processed in the state before export, which boosted local investments.

He proudly noted that Nasarawa State now hosts Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant and several other smaller tin mining operations. Governor Sule urged Nigeria to shift focus towards long-term industrialisation over short-term financial gains, drawing comparisons to China’s approach to mining development.

Sule remains determined to overcome resistance to regulations that would ultimately benefit the sector and the economy. Professor Akinade Olatunji, President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, acknowledged the governor’s contributions to advancing mining reforms in Nigeria, culminating in a fellowship award presented to him during the event.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s call for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector underlines his commitment to modernising the industry. By improving revenue-sharing mechanisms and enforcing operational regulations, he aims to harness the nation’s mining potential for sustainable growth and investment. His proactive measures reflect a determined effort to transform the sector into a vital component of Nigeria’s economy.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals are determined to intensify their efforts against illegal mining operations in 2025. At the NSCDC National Headquarters, Commander John Attah discussed the achievements made in 2024, specifically targeting powerful cartels hindering the nation’s mineral resource management. The establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee has led to the development of strategies aimed at reducing unlawful activities in mining sectors.

Since the launch of the Specialized Mining Marshals in March 2024, over 2,509 trained operatives have been deployed across Nigeria to strengthen security in mining regions. Attah praised the collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals and NSCDC, crediting it with the significant progress in combating illicit mining activities. The squad has successfully shut down illegal mining sites and ensured adherence to legal frameworks governing the industry.

Attah expressed optimism about future operations under Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi’s leadership, emphasising their commitment to rooting out illegal miners and their networks. The Mining Marshals reaffirmed their dedication to intensifying efforts against illegal mining in 2025 to safeguard Nigeria’s extensive mineral wealth from exploitative practices.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals were established to address the rising challenge of illegal mining in Nigeria, which poses significant threats to the nation’s mineral resources and economic stability. In recent years, increased illegal mining activities have led to environmental degradation and loss of government revenue. The collaboration with the Ministry of Solid Minerals marks a proactive approach to enforcing legal mining practices and protecting natural resources.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals are resolute in their mission to eliminate illegal mining activities in Nigeria by 2025. With a focus on strategic collaboration and enhanced operational capabilities, the squad aims to significantly reduce illicit activities that threaten the country’s mineral resources. Their ongoing commitment reflects a serious stance against economic sabotage and a dedication to preserving Nigeria’s natural wealth.

Original Source: thewhistler.ng

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Zamfara State, rich in minerals like gold, copper, and lithium, faces severe insecurity linked to illegal mining and banditry, where armed groups engage in cattle rustling and kidnappings. These resources, while valuable, have attracted criminal activities that exploit both the resources and local miners, who often endure unsafe working conditions dominated by intimidation from armed factions.

The Nigerian government instated a mining ban in 2019 to combat escalating insecurity, later expanding to a no-fly zone due to concerns that illegal gold mining funded weapon smuggling. However, the ban failed due to widespread bandit control over mining sites. Many locals remained involved in artisanal mining, as this was their only income source, ironically strengthening bandit operations financially.

Data shows the ban’s ineffectiveness, with registered deaths from insecurity increasing by 183% post-ban, indicating a worsening situation. The ban disrupted local livelihoods, pushing individuals into illegal mining, and bandits exploited this vulnerability to strengthen their criminal activities. With the mining ban lifted in December 2024, the government faced the same issues, as bandits continued to control operations despite the stated improvements in the state’s security.

Addressing these problems requires structural reforms, including the involvement of local authorities in mineral regulation and development. The government needs a comprehensive strategy to enhance security at mining sites through specialised forces and improved surveillance while establishing robust regulations on mineral extraction and sales to combat smuggling. Collaboration with local communities and international partners can also modernise Nigeria’s mining sector.

Additionally, providing alternative employment opportunities and supporting community development can address the economic vulnerabilities faced by Zamfara’s mining communities, reducing their reliance on illegal mining. Emphasising responsible mining practices will help protect both the miners’ well-being and the environment from health hazards and ecological degradation.

The situation in Zamfara highlights the complexity of balancing mineral exploitation with security and community welfare. By focusing on enhanced security measures, regulatory frameworks, and local community support, the Nigerian government could create a sustainable mining sector that deters bandit activity while benefiting the overall economy.

The article discusses the complex relationship between illegal mining, banditry, and economic dependency in Zamfara State, Nigeria. It outlines the history of mining bans instituted by the government aimed at curtailing insecurity resulting from these activities. However, the bans were largely ineffective as they disrupted local livelihoods and empowered armed groups controlling mining sites. The state’s mineral wealth offers potential for economic growth, yet poses significant governance and security challenges.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara is a pivotal moment for Nigeria to tackle insecurity and better utilise mineral wealth. The previous ban revealed the intricate challenges, including worsening insecurity and local economic dependency on illegal mining. Future interventions must robustly address security, community needs, and industry regulation to prevent bandit exploitation while fostering a sustainable mining framework.

Original Source: solacebase.com

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Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, underscored Nasarawa state’s critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru. He highlighted Nasarawa as a mining hub, especially for lithium, and emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration to exploit the state’s mineral wealth effectively.

Nasarawa state is known for its extensive mineral resources, particularly lithium, positioning it as a pivotal area for mining efforts in Nigeria. Recent reforms in the country’s mining sector have sparked increasing interest from global investors. However, challenges such as insecurity remain, prompting the need for enhanced cooperation among state and federal officials to support mining activities while addressing security concerns.

The emphasis on collaboration between governmental bodies is crucial for advancing mining activities in Nasarawa, particularly amidst ongoing security challenges. The commitment by officials to address these issues signifies a robust strategy towards unlocking the state’s minerals potential for national growth. Overall, sustained cooperation is imperative for the mining sector’s success in Nigeria.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

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The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlighted the vital role of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru. Alake noted that Nasarawa, rich in lithium and other minerals, is essential for national development and expressed appreciation for the cooperative relationship with the state government.

Alake indicated that recent reforms have attracted global attention to Nigeria’s mining industry. Governor Sule praised Alake for promoting President Bola Tinubu’s mining agenda but acknowledged ongoing security challenges. Sule emphasised the need for collaboration to address these issues to facilitate uninterrupted mining operations.

Governor Sule reported that lithium production is thriving in the state, with more factories under construction. He stressed the importance of partnering with the private sector to enhance the mining value chain.

Defence Minister Badaru reaffirmed the federal government’s determination to combat insecurity, which has hindered mining activities. He reported progress in tackling banditry and assured that security measures are being intensified nationwide to enable safe mining operations.

Nasarawa State is rich in mineral resources, notably lithium, making it central to Nigeria’s mining ambitions. The government aims to leverage these resources for economic growth, hence the focus on overcoming insecurity to allow for sustainable development. Collaboration between state and federal officials is critical for addressing challenges in the mining sector and ensuring a conducive environment for investment and exploration.

The dialogue among officials underscores the significance of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining landscape, stressing the interplay between resource development and security. Effective collaboration is essential to overcoming obstacles and bolstering the mining sector, ensuring that the state remains a pivotal player in national mineral development.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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On Wednesday in Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and France advanced their mining collaboration by discussing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established in Paris. France committed to upgrading the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency’s laboratory, supplying advanced equipment, and funding geological data exploration. This meeting was attended by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development and France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, aiming to foster cooperation and share information on mining legislation and practices between the two countries.

During discussions at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Gallezot revealed that he was evaluating applications from French companies to invest in the Nigerian sector. Minister Alake thanked Gallezot for facilitating the MOU amidst tight schedules, mentioning that political challenges regarding the MOU’s objectives have been addressed. He called the forum a pivotal opportunity for enhancing collaboration through strategic programmes and projects.

Key topics of discussion included sustainable and artisanal mining, geological exploration, and cadastre management. The Director-General of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency expressed the critical need for modern technology to improve geological data collection and analysis. He stated that upgraded labs are essential for accurate mineral analysis.

Additionally, the DG of the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office suggested that both nations review their mining laws to find common ground and enhance legislation. He invited the French delegation to encourage French investors to explore mining opportunities in Nigeria. The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Fund emphasised the importance of joint funding for exploration projects with French financial institutions.

France’s geological agency representative committed to including Nigeria in its capacity-building initiatives for African geologists and discussed funding for laboratory upgrades. Gallezot finalised discussions by stating that the proposals would be reviewed by the respective governments, focusing on joint exploration efforts between the geological agencies of both countries. The programme’s progress will be analysed at the upcoming annual Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France reflects a growing interest in mining, which is critical to both nations. The partnership aims to enhance technological capabilities in Nigeria’s mining sector, promote sustainable practices, and ensure legal compliance. By exchanging knowledge and resources, both countries seek to maximise their mining potential while attracting foreign investments and improving local expertise.

The strengthened ties between Nigeria and France in the mining sector indicate a strategic partnership focused on efficient exploration and sustainable practices. With commitments from France to upgrade technology and funding, this collaboration could significantly enhance Nigeria’s mining capabilities and attract potential investors. Ongoing discussions will pave the way for effective implementation, with further evaluations planned in the near future at an important mining event.

Original Source: nta.ng

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France has pledged funding for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to enhance geological data exploration. This commitment was announced by Kehinde Bamigbetan, special adviser to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake. The funding aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both nations in December 2024, during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Paris to boost solid minerals sector collaboration.

During a recent meeting in Riyadh, held at the Future Minerals Forum, Alake and Benjamin Gallezot from France’s strategic minerals delegation discussed advancing the MoU’s implementation. They agreed to exchange information on mining laws, aiming to compare regulations and combat illegal mining. Alake acknowledged Gallezot’s efforts to create the MoU amidst time constraints, responding to public misconceptions about its goals.

A key aspect of the meeting was Gallezot’s assurance of reviewing French companies interested in investing in Nigerian mining. The list of credible investors will be shared with Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Joint exploration efforts for specific minerals were also proposed to develop a comprehensive geological database.

Bamigbetan highlighted the need for geological advancements in Nigeria, with Olusegun Ige, NGSA’s director-general, stressing the importance of upgrading laboratories to modern standards for accurate rock analysis. Emphasis was placed on training and skill enhancement for local expertise in the mining sector.

Simon Nkom from the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office urged the comparison of mining laws between Nigeria and France to aid law reviews. Fatima Shinkafi from the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Fund called for shared funding for exploration initiatives, leveraging past collaborations to support entrepreneurs in mining.

Christophe Poinssot from the French Geological Agency affirmed Nigeria’s inclusion in a funding programme aimed at supporting African geologists. He confirmed that Nigeria would receive laboratory upgrades to comply with international standards. Both nations plan to evaluate their collaborative programme at the upcoming annual Indaba in Cape Town next month.

The collaboration between France and Nigeria focuses on enhancing the geological data exploration capabilities of Nigeria’s mining sector. The initiative aims to diversify value chains in the solid minerals sector and addresses the need for advanced technology and training in Nigeria. The agreement fosters exchange on mining laws and promotes investment from French companies, aiming for sustainable mining practices and the development of local expertise.

France’s funding commitment to the NGSA underscores a strategic partnership aimed at improving Nigeria’s mining capabilities. The initiatives discussed during the Future Minerals Forum highlight cooperation in exploring minerals, enhancing local geological practices, and fostering investment opportunities. This collaboration is intended to address current challenges in the Nigerian mining sector and promote sustainable practices.

Original Source: www.nigerianeye.com

The post France Pledges Funding for Nigeria’s Geological Exploration Efforts first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

In Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and France reinforced their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding mining, initially established last month in Paris. Key commitments from France include upgrading laboratories, providing advanced technology, and funding geological data exploration for Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency. Kehinde Bamgbetan, Special Adviser to Nigeria’s Minister, announced this during the Future Minerals Forum, where the two nations also agreed to share mining law information to tackle illegal mining.

The meeting in Riyadh focused on collaboration in the mining sector between Nigeria and France. Both countries aim to enhance their mining capabilities through a detailed MoU that addresses technology transfer, training, and sustainable practices. The discussions aimed to foster investment from French companies in Nigeria’s mining sector, driving improvements and compliance with international standards in geological exploration.

The collaborative efforts between Nigeria and France aim to strengthen the mining sector through technological advancements and knowledge sharing. Key actions include upgrading facilities, training local expertise, and facilitating investments. Future meetings will evaluate the MoU’s implementation, ensuring both countries benefit from their partnership historically rooted in geological cooperation.

Original Source: theeagleonline.com.ng

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Cooperation in Saudi Arabia first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have solidified their partnership following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Paris. In a recent meeting at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, both countries agreed on France upgrading Nigeria’s geological laboratories and providing advanced technology.
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, and France’s Benjamin Gallezot discussed information exchange on mining laws and illegal mining. Gallezot indicated that they are evaluating French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector.
Dr Alake expressed gratitude for the MOU established during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France. The forum was pivotal for advancing collaboration between Nigeria and France in mining through effective programmes and policies.
Professor Olusegun Ige highlighted the need for advanced technology for geological exploration, which has suffered due to equipment shortages. He advocated for the development of local expertise through international training in mining.
Engr Simon Nkom urged a comparative analysis of mining laws in both countries to facilitate improvements. Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi proposed a co-funding model for early-stage exploration projects with French financial institutions.
Christophe Poinssot from France’s geological agency pledged Nigeria’s inclusion in Africa’s geological training funding program, having benefited over 1,000 geologists in the past. He also confirmed plans to improve Nigeria’s geological laboratory facilities to international standards.

The article discusses the strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and France in the mining sector, particularly focusing on technological upgrades and investment opportunities. It outlines the commitments established through a recent MOU aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s mining capabilities and expertise through training and resource sharing. By facilitating advanced technology and fostering cooperation on legal frameworks, both countries aim to bolster their mining industries.

In summary, Nigeria and France have formed a robust partnership to enhance the mining sector through advanced technology, training, and legal exchange. The ongoing collaboration aims to improve geological exploration and attract investments from French companies. Joint efforts are expected to yield significant benefits for both nations, facilitating mutual growth in the mining industry.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Collaboration Through MOU first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

France has pledged to finance the geological data exploration of Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency (NGSA). Kehinde Bamigbetan, a special adviser to the minister of solid minerals development, announced this commitment as part of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in December 2024. This agreement aims to enhance mining activities in both countries.

On December 1, 2024, Nigeria and France formalised their collaboration on diversifying solid minerals through an MOU during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Paris. The signing was instrumental in establishing a framework for the two nations to collaborate on mining initiatives.

During discussions at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Nigeria’s Minister Alake and France’s Benjamin Gallezot addressed the MOU’s progression and shared insights on mining regulations and illegal mining practices in both countries. Additionally, they reported on strategies to eliminate misinformation regarding the MOU’s objectives.

Gallezot highlighted that his department is evaluating interested French companies for investment opportunities in Nigeria’s mining sector. He informed the Nigerian ministry that discussions from the meeting will be escalated through various governmental channels for further action.

The meeting covered crucial topics including sustainable and artisanal mining, geological exploration, and necessary training. Olusegun Ige, DG of NGSA, emphasised the urgent need for improved technology and laboratory upgrades for optimal mineral analysis.

Simon Nkom, DG of the Nigerian mining cadastral office, called for harmonisation of mining laws between both nations, which he suggested might streamline Nigeria’s legal framework. Fatima Shinkafi, from the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Fund, advocated for joint funding of preliminary exploration projects with French financial institutions.

The commitment of France to fund the geological exploration in Nigeria illustrates a strengthening bilateral relationship focused on sustainable mining practices and improved resource management. The MOU signed in December 2024 aims to diversify and enhance the solid minerals sectors in both countries, reflecting ongoing collaborative efforts within the framework established during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France.

France’s funding commitment marks a significant step in enhancing Nigeria’s geological capabilities, with the two nations actively engaging to advance mining regulations and investment opportunities. Collaborative efforts aimed at developing Nigeria’s mining sector promise to foster growth, technological advancement, and improved mining practices. The partnership will also bolster Nigeria’s capacity for geological research and analysis, enhancing its global standing in the minerals market.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

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