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

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Nigeria and France have strengthened their partnership in the mining sector by committing to upgrading Nigeria’s geological infrastructure and enhancing technology transfer. The commitments made include upgrading Nigeria’s geological laboratories, providing advanced equipment, and funding geological data exploration for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency.

During a meeting at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, both countries discussed strategies to improve Nigeria’s geological infrastructure and promote sustainable mining practices. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, and France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, Benjamin Gallezot, led the discussions.

This collaboration follows an earlier memorandum of understanding established during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France, aimed at promoting critical minerals and diversifying the value chain. Both nations also agreed to share information on mining laws to combat illegal mining and facilitate collaboration.

Gallezot revealed that French companies are being screened for potential investments in Nigeria’s mining sector, with plans to present credible investors to the Nigerian Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Alake praised Gallezot’s efforts in finalising the MoU and highlighted the need for policies to solidify cooperation.

Key focus areas included sustainable mining practices, artisanal mining, geological exploration, and funding. Professor Olusegun Ige of the NGSA stressed the importance of modern technological equipment for effective exploration.

Training and skills transfer were emphasised, with the aim to develop local expertise aligned with international standards. Simon Nkom from the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office underscored the need to review mining laws and enhance collaborative practices between Nigeria and France.

Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi proposed co-funding opportunities for early-stage exploration projects in collaboration with French financial institutions. Christophe Poinssot from the French geological agency confirmed Nigeria would benefit from capacity-building funding for geologists, along with laboratory upgrades to meet international standards.

Gallezot concluded that the proposals discussed will be forwarded to respective governments for evaluation and execution planning, with joint exploration initiatives on specific minerals expected to strengthen the data database. Both parties agreed to review progress at the upcoming annual Indaba in Cape Town.

The strengthening of mining ties between Nigeria and France reflects a commitment to enhance the mining sector’s efficiency and sustainability. Both nations are working towards improving geological infrastructure and sharing expertise to bolster investments in Nigeria’s mining industry. This collaboration follows a memorandum of understanding aimed at diversifying and promoting critical minerals, crucial for both countries’ economic development and sustainability efforts.

The commitments made between Nigeria and France mark a significant step in enhancing the mining sector. By investing in geological infrastructure and promoting knowledge exchange, both countries aim to leverage their resources efficiently. The continued collaboration will likely lead to improved mining practices and sustainable development in Nigeria’s mineral-rich areas.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Cooperation with New Commitments first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.