Venezuelan Deputy Minister of Mining, Alejandro Martinez, has announced that Venezuelan investors are keen to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s mining sector. This interest was conveyed during discussions with Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa. Martinez noted that Venezuelan investors, particularly those in mining machinery production, are eager to collaborate and seek assistance in facilitating visits to Nigeria for investment insights.

Minister Alake highlighted that both countries previously benefited from petroleum but now face the need to diversify into solid minerals due to global warming and economic pressures. He emphasised that Nigeria has significant mineral resources crucial for energy transition, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements. Alake stressed the importance of processing minerals locally to generate employment and economic growth.

Alake called on Venezuela to join a new coalition of nations, termed the “Super Region,” aimed at facilitating trade among member countries and leveraging shared economic challenges for collective gain. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with Venezuela on mineral exploitation and ensured that any projects would focus on local value addition and sustainability. The meeting saw participation from key Venezuelan officials, including the Ambassador to South Africa, Carlos Fed Acevedo.

The collaboration between Venezuela and Nigeria in the mining sector emerges as both countries seek to diversify their economies. With a shared background in petroleum production, both nations are now facing the reality of shifting global energy demands. Venezuela’s interest in Nigeria’s mining sector comes at a time when Nigeria is keen to exploit its mineral resources to boost economic independence and local employment. This partnership presents opportunities to harness each nation’s strengths for mutual benefit, particularly in mineral processing and trade.

The engagement between Venezuelan and Nigerian officials points towards a promising partnership in the mining sector. With a strong focus on sustainable development and local value addition, both nations are committed to leveraging their mineral resources effectively. As they navigate economic diversification, initiatives like the ‘Super Region’ coalition could strengthen their cooperative efforts and enhance trade relations, ensuring growth in the increasingly important mining sector.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Venezuelan Investors Show Interest in Nigeria’s Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

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.

The French government plans to enhance the capabilities of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) by upgrading its laboratory and equipping it with advanced technology. This initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Nigeria, announced during the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Benjamin Gallezot led the French delegation while Nigeria was represented by Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.

Moreover, the commitment extends to funding geological data exploration for the NGSA. A statement from Kehinde Bamigbetan, Alake’s Special Adviser, emphasized the initiative’s impact on promoting critical mineral projects in Nigeria. Gallezot indicated that his department is evaluating French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector to ensure the credibility of prospective investors.

Minister Alake expressed gratitude for Gallezot’s collaboration in developing the MoU aimed at enhancing the two countries’ solid mineral sectors. Bamigbetan also addressed misconceptions regarding the MoU, clarifying that Nigeria is not conceding control over its mineral resources or forming a military alliance with France. The minerals forum serves as an essential platform for fostering understanding and collaboration between the two nations.

NGSA’s Director-General, Prof. Olusegun Ige, highlighted that the absence of advanced technology has hindered exploration efforts in areas rich in mineral deposits. He stressed the importance of cultivating local expertise through international exposure, noting that mining requires ongoing training and skill transfer to remain competitive globally.

This article discusses France’s commitment to upgrading Nigeria’s geological surveying capabilities through modern technological resources. The agreement, made at an international minerals forum, signifies an effort to strengthen cooperation in the mining sector between Nigeria and France, with an emphasis on sustainable development and value chain enhancement in critical minerals. This move also aims to address the existing challenges within Nigeria’s mining industry.

In conclusion, France’s pledge to upgrade Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency marks a significant step in enhancing the country’s mining capabilities. The partnership will not only provide advanced technology and funding but will also foster international collaboration and expertise development, essential for tapping Nigeria’s mineral wealth effectively. Addressing public misconceptions highlights the importance of clear communication in international agreements.

Original Source: freedomonline.com.ng

The post France to Enhance Nigeria’s Survey Agency with Advanced Technology first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria has signed a funding agreement with France to enhance geological data exploration in its mining sector through the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA). This collaboration aims to improve Nigeria’s capability in assessing its mineral resources, marking a concerted effort to revitalise the industry. By leveraging France’s financial and technical support, Nigeria is committed to upgrading its geological infrastructure to address existing challenges such as outdated technologies and inadequate facilities.

The partnership between Nigeria and France is a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s mining sector, which has faced significant challenges such as declining production and limited technological access. With a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in December 2024, both nations aim to enhance the critical minerals value chain and promote sustainable mining practices. The initiative is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to attract international investment and modernise its mining operations.

In summary, the agreement between Nigeria and France is pivotal in transforming Nigeria’s mining landscape. By gaining access to advanced technologies and fostering local expertise, Nigeria aims to overcome its mining sector challenges. This partnership could serve as a model for future collaborations in addressing global resource management challenges effectively.

Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com

The post Nigeria and France Partner to Boost Geological Data Exploration in Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

France plans to enhance the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) laboratory by providing advanced technological equipment as part of a recent agreement. This commitment arose from discussions related to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Nigeria. The French delegation, led by Inter-ministerial Delegate Benjamin Gallezot, announced this at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, alongside Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.

The agreement will also include funding for geological data exploration for the NGSA. Following the MoU announcement, there will be collaborative projects aimed at promoting the value chain of critical minerals in both nations. Gallezot shared that efforts are underway to verify suitable French investors interested in Nigeria’s mining sector to ensure they are credible.

At the meeting, Alake thanked Gallezot for the collaboration towards the MoU, which focuses on developing the solid minerals sector. Allegations from political opponents claiming Nigeria would lose control over its mineral resources were dismissed as misinformation. The Future Minerals Forum served as a platform to enhance cooperation between the two countries in designing joint programmes.

Professor Olusegun Ige, Director-General of NGSA, indicated that the lack of advanced equipment has hindered exploration in mineral-rich areas. He highlighted the importance of enhancing local expertise through international exposure and continuous training, crucial for a global mining business.

France’s commitment to upgrading the NGSA’s laboratory is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with Nigeria through the MoU signed in December 2024. This initiative is expected to stimulate the solid minerals sector in both countries by promoting investments and facilitating knowledge transfer. Addressing the technological gap in Nigeria will enhance exploration efforts and ensure the region can better utilise its mineral resources.

The collaboration between France and Nigeria aims to foster development in the solid minerals sector through technological upgrades and joint projects. By verifying French investments and enhancing local expertise, the partnership seeks to optimise Nigeria’s mineral resources management while dispelling misinformation associated with the MoU. This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations and supporting Nigeria’s mining capabilities.

Original Source: aljazirahnews.com

The post France Commits to Upgrading Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency Laboratory 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

The post France Commits to Fund Nigeria’s Geological Data Exploration first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

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.

Nigeria and France have bolstered their partnership in the mining sector with a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last month in Paris. During discussions at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, both countries outlined plans to enhance Nigeria’s geological framework, facilitate technology transfers, and promote sustainable practices in mining.

Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, led their teams in talks to align policies, share expertise, and enhance investment opportunities in Nigeria’s mining landscape.

A statement from Hon. Kehinde Bamigbetan revealed France’s commitment to providing advanced technological support, funding for geological data exploration, and upgrading the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency’s laboratory to meet international standards.

Dr. Alake acknowledged Gallezot’s efforts in advancing the Completion of the MoU during a prior meeting between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing optimism for tangible outcomes in geological exploration and mining reforms.

Gallezot announced that his department is compiling a list of vetted French firms interested in investment opportunities in Nigeria, which will be sent to Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development shortly.

Christophe Poinssot from France’s BRGM noted that Nigeria would receive dedicated funding to enhance geological capacity in Africa, including upgrading local laboratories and training programs.

Professor Olusegun Ige from the NGSA highlighted the urgency for modern equipment to boost mineral exploration in Nigeria, advocating for international partnerships to facilitate skill and knowledge transfer.

Engineer Simon Nkom, from the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office, urged for a comparative review of mining regulations between Nigeria and France to identify best practices. He also invited French investors to seize opportunities from the MoU.

Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi from the Nigerian Solid Minerals Development Fund suggested collaborative funding for early exploration initiatives with French banks, noting previous successful partnerships with the Africa Finance Corporation.

The parties agreed to foster collaborative geological exploration and database development, with Gallezot indicating that proposals would be reviewed by the French government before finalising strategies at the upcoming Mining Indaba in Cape Town.

This renewed collaboration between Nigeria and France aims to enhance investments, build capacities, and exploit Nigeria’s mineral wealth, positioning the mining sector as a key player in Nigeria’s economic diversification.

The recent partnership between Nigeria and France aims to enhance the capabilities of Nigeria’s mining sector through a MoU. By attending the Future Minerals Forum, officials from both nations focus on sustainable mining practices, technology transfers, and geological capacity-building initiatives. This collaboration seeks to attract French investment into Nigeria’s resource-rich areas, promoting job creation and economic growth.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France in the mining sector represents a strategic move to enhance geological infrastructure and attract investment. The MoU lays the groundwork for advanced technological support, sustainable practices, and international partnerships that will bolster Nigeria’s mining framework and realise its mineral potential.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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