The Nigerian government has officially lifted its 2019 ban on mining in Zamfara State, citing improved security conditions. Minister Dele Alake has emphasised the state’s significant mineral wealth, including gold, lithium, and copper, and the government’s commitment to regulating mining to prevent illegal operations. This policy shift is expected to increase national revenue while promoting sustainable growth in the mining sector.

In 2019, a ban was imposed on mining activities in Zamfara to address rampant insecurity and illegal mining. Following notable improvements in the state’s security situation, the government decided to lift the ban, recognising Zamfara’s potential for rich mineral resources, which can significantly contribute to the economy. The renewed focus on regulation aims to curb illegal mining, enhance revenue collection, and attract investment in the sector.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara is a crucial development for Nigeria’s economy. Not only does it aim to control illegal mining, but it also seeks to unlock the state’s mineral resources for national gain. The government’s additional plans for 2025 further indicate a commitment to creating a more sustainable and investor-friendly mining environment.

Original Source: nigerianbulletin.com

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The signing of the mining pact between France and Nigeria presents an opportunity for Nigeria to harness its mineral resources for economic diversification while strengthening ties with France. Although the pact can facilitate investment, technical expertise, and advanced technologies, Nigeria must navigate its complexities carefully due to regional tensions and historical grievances against France in West Africa. For Nigeria, the mining sector is a potential economic driver, but vigilance is essential to prevent exploitation and ensure local communities benefit significantly.

Nigeria’s dependency on oil has stifled its economic growth, thus, the mining industry, rich in resources like gold and tin, holds promise for diversification. Partnering with France, a leader in mining technology, could enable Nigeria to build a modern industry that generates jobs and attracts foreign investment. Yet, Nigeria’s recent experiences with military governments and accusations against France of neocolonialism linger, necessitating a cautious approach.

Lessons from the Niger Delta underscore the need for robust regulatory frameworks to guard against exploitation. Clear regulations should emphasize transparency, fairness, and sustainability to protect local interests. Developing local capacity in mineral processing and management is crucial; Nigeria must not overly rely on foreign expertise, as community involvement ensures shared benefits and stable relations.

France’s advanced technology could help monitor and regulate mining practices, averting resource conflicts similar to those experienced in the oil sector. However, it is paramount that these technologies are managed by local institutions to prevent manipulation. Furthermore, combating corruption is essential to secure Nigeria’s economic future, and collaboration among various government agencies can aid in addressing issues of illegal mining and smuggling.

The France-Nigeria mining pact aims to exploit Nigeria’s rich mineral resources as a means to diversify its economy, reduce dependence on oil, and strengthen diplomatic relations with France. While presenting an opportunity for economic growth through mining, the deal comes with risks due to historical tensions in West Africa regarding France’s alleged neocolonial practices. Both nations face the challenge of ensuring that this partnership leads to sustainable development without repeating past exploitative patterns seen in other resource-rich countries.

To maximise the benefits of the France-Nigeria mining pact, Nigeria must adopt a cautious yet strategic approach. Prioritising community involvement, regulatory integrity, and capacity building are fundamental to prevent the pitfalls of past resource exploitation. By asserting its sovereignty and maintaining rigorous oversight, Nigeria can transform this collaboration into a beneficial venture for its people and the economy.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com

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The Federal Government of Nigeria and France have entered an agreement aimed at developing joint projects to enhance the value chain of critical minerals in the solid minerals sector. These minerals, including copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are vital for clean energy technologies. This collaboration is expected to lead to the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria, significantly improving safety following recent tragedies involving pit collapses that claimed 65 lives.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France. It encompasses cooperation in research, training, and student exchanges between France and Nigeria to foster knowledge transfer. Sustainable mining practices will be a priority, with initiatives designed to minimise environmental impacts, including reduced carbon emissions and water consumption.

Furthermore, the partnership involves establishing joint extraction and processing projects, supported by both public and private sector funding. The Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, highlighted that this agreement aligns with the Tinubu administration’s goals to enhance the international competitiveness of the mining sector, attracting French investments.

This agreement between Nigeria and France is strategic, focusing on the critical minerals essential for clean energy, such as lithium and cobalt. With the increasing global emphasis on sustainability in mining practices, the partnership is poised to address the pressing issues of environmental degradation and safety in mining operations. Recent mining disasters in Nigeria highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and community-focused initiatives, making this agreement particularly timely and significant for both nations.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France marks a crucial step towards advancing the solid minerals sector while ensuring sustainable practices and safety improvements. The MoU paves the way for enhanced research, training, and investments, contributing to the local economy and addressing critical environmental concerns. This partnership exemplifies international cooperation aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in the mining industry.

Original Source: punchng.com

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The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France aimed at collaborative mining projects. This agreement focuses on critical minerals essential for clean energy, such as copper and lithium, and seeks to revitalize over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria. The MoU will also facilitate exchanges between Franco-Nigerian students and implement sustainable mining practices aimed at reducing environmental impacts.

The collaboration, signed during President Tinubu’s official visit to France, includes commitments to co-finance joint extractive and processing projects. It emphasises applying international best practices to improve the socio-economic conditions of those affected by mining activities. The parties aim to enhance skill sets within the critical metals sector through training initiatives and knowledge transfer, fundamentally repositioning Nigeria’s mining sector for global competitiveness, according to Minister Dr Dele Alake.

The partnership between Nigeria and France comes at a time when clean energy technologies increasingly rely on critical minerals. These resources, including nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are crucial for technologies that support climate goals and sustainable energy. This initiative aims not only to exploit these resources responsibly but also to address the dire safety concerns in Nigeria’s mining sector, highlighted by recent tragedies involving mining collapses.

In conclusion, the MoU signed between Nigeria and France represents a significant step towards improving the country’s mining sector through sustainable practices and international cooperation. By revitalising abandoned sites and focusing on training and knowledge exchange, both nations aim to enhance the effectiveness and safety of mining operations, thereby empowering local communities and attracting foreign investment.

Original Source: saharareporters.com

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Nigeria and France have formalised a partnership to enhance their mining sectors through a Memorandum of Understanding. Signed during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France, the agreement aims to advance projects related to critical minerals essential for clean energy, such as lithium and cobalt. It seeks to address the remediation of abandoned mining sites and includes collaboration on research and training for skills transfer between the two nations. Moreover, the deal promotes sustainable mining practices to mitigate environmental impacts and improve local community conditions.

Critical minerals are increasingly vital for developing technologies that support clean energy solutions. Recent incidents in Nigeria, including fatal mining pit collapses, have highlighted the urgent need for better regulatory practices and resource management in the sector. This agreement represents a strategic move to attract foreign investment, bolster the skills of the local workforce, and ensure the mining practices adopted are both sustainable and beneficial to local communities.

The partnership between Nigeria and France marks a significant step towards revitalising Nigeria’s mining industry. By focusing on sustainable practices and skill development, this collaboration aims to ensure the responsible extraction of critical minerals and improve the livelihood of communities impacted by mining. The commitment to international best practices underscores the importance of transparency and sustainability in these ventures.

Original Source: economicconfidential.com

The post Nigeria and France Join Forces to Enhance Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have formalised a collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the management of the mining sector’s value chain in both countries. This agreement, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France, emphasises the need for regular training and seminars to boost the capacity of institutions involved in the critical metals sector.

The MoU is intended to promote sustainable mining practices that minimise environmental impacts and to establish joint projects between public and private sectors. Alongside research and student exchanges, this partnership aims to rejuvenate over 2,000 abandoned mining sites to facilitate environmental rehabilitation. The Nigerian government views this agreement as a vital step towards increasing international competitiveness and attracting French investment into its mining sector.

The partnership between Nigeria and France in managing the mining sector’s value chain stems from the need to enhance the effectiveness of solid minerals management. The agreement highlights a shared commitment to sustainable practices and the development of critical minerals, which are essential for global energy transitions. Collaborating via this MoU will allow both countries to leverage their strengths, share expertise, and improve practices in a sector that is increasingly important to their economies.

The signing of the MoU between Nigeria and France represents a significant advancement in international cooperation to foster sustainable mining practices and improve management of the mining sector’s value chain. This agreement not only promises to enhance training and capacity-building initiatives but also aims to rehabilitate environmental damage caused by past mining activities. Ultimately, the collaboration could lead to increased foreign investment and improved conditions for communities affected by mining.

Original Source: www.ripplesnigeria.com

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Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, urged mining CEOs to initiate the establishment of mining development banks to secure long-term financing essential for the sector’s sustainable growth. Speaking at a CEO Roundtable during the 2024 Nigeria Mining Week, he encouraged private-sector leadership to ensure independence from government influence. Alake reassured executives that the federal government is actively removing obstacles to facilitate better business conditions and promote investments in mining.

In addressing challenges of state-level interference, Alake asserted that such entities lack constitutional authority over mining policies, as the sector is exclusively managed at the federal level. He highlighted ongoing dialogues with state governments to encourage constructive involvement in mining, allowing states to apply for licenses and operate as Limited Liability Companies. This initiative aims to address concerns about local resource management and has seen several states successfully engage in the licensing process.

The Minister announced future plans to create a mining infrastructure corridor to enhance the investment climate and indicated that inter-ministerial collaboration is being established to support this project. He called for continued cooperation from mining executives on ongoing reforms, particularly regarding the review of the sector’s rates regime.

The article discusses the call from the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, for mining CEOs to lead the establishment of mining development banks in Nigeria. This initiative aims to facilitate sustainable long-term financing for the mining sector, which is facing challenges like state-level interference and bureaucracy. Alake’s emphasis on private-sector involvement and the federal government’s reforms shows a clear intent to improve the mining landscape in Nigeria.

In summary, Dr. Dele Alake has urged mining CEOs to spearhead the formation of mining development banks as a foundation for securing long-term financing. He reassured stakeholders that governmental reforms are focused on enhancing the mining sector’s operational environment. Alake’s plans aim to ensure that the industry evolves sustainably while addressing state-level interferences effectively and encouraging private sector leadership.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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As the 9th Nigeria Mining Week approaches, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has pledged to address environmental issues linked to mining operations. He mentioned that the ministry is advancing robust policies aimed at curtailing environmental degradation while maximising Nigeria’s mining potential for economic growth. Dr. Alake highlighted the legacy of over 1,000 abandoned mining pits and emphasised ongoing remediation efforts to mitigate the environmental risks they pose to local communities. In a press briefing, the minister elaborated on the ministry’s strategies, which include a department focused on environmental compliance for mining operators. All applicants for mining permits must now submit plans for site remediation before receiving licences. This measure aims to prevent unaccountable abandonment of mining sites. Dr. Alake also stressed the ministry’s commitment to public awareness initiatives regarding the dangers of unregulated mining, asserting that illegal operations significantly harm the environment, unlike regulated operators. The government is also prioritising data transparency within the mining sector, aiming to attract investments by ensuring the availability of high-quality geoscientific data. Dr. Alake expressed the intention to enhance Nigeria’s appeal as an investment destination aligned with international standards, while also pushing a value-addition strategy that promotes local processing of resources. This approach aims to generate jobs and bolster the economy across sectors. Dr. Mary A. Ogbe, Permanent Secretary, noted the media’s vital role in shaping public perception of Nigeria’s mining potential. Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association, remarked on the significance of informing both local and international audiences about the opportunities presented during the mining week. Additionally, Habeeb Jaiyeola from PricewaterhouseCoopers outlined that the event will cover various pivotal topics, underlining the strategic value of critical minerals and the need for sustainable development. The three-day event is scheduled from November 18 to 20, 2024.

The Nigeria Mining Week is an annual event designed to showcase the mining industry’s potential and foster investment in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. Environmental management is a pressing concern due to historical mining practices that left numerous abandoned pits posing risks to local ecosystems and communities. The current administration aims to rectify these past oversights while promoting sustainable mining practices that align with global standards. By integrating environmental stewardship into the mining strategy, Nigeria seeks to attract both domestic and foreign investments, ultimately enhancing the country’s economic resilience and growth.

Dr. Dele Alake’s commitment to addressing environmental hazards in Nigeria’s mining sector highlights the government’s proactive approach towards sustainable practices. With a focus on remediation, regulatory compliance, and public awareness, the ministry aims to transform challenges into opportunities for economic advancement. The upcoming Nigeria Mining Week serves as a platform to reinforce these objectives, showcasing Nigeria’s mineral-rich landscape and its potential for sustainable development.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com

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