Mining stakeholders in Nigeria are urging for enhanced collaboration among relevant agencies and institutions to foster sector development. This call was made during a pre-conference discussion at the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) Annual International Conference and Exhibition held in Abuja. The conference theme spotlighted innovation in transforming various sectors including mining.

Mr. Olusegun Adedayo, a mining policy advisor, stressed the necessity for local partnerships to elevate Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global mining landscape amidst increasing demand for energy minerals. He highlighted the need for aggregated data on Nigeria’s mineral reserves to attract investors, advocating for joint efforts in research, funding, and geoscience data collection to focus on key minerals.

Adedayo noted the issue of fragmented geoscience data stored in silos across different agencies. He proposed centralising this information to enhance accessibility for domestic and international investors. His assertion underscored the need for Nigeria to invest in its own technological and research capabilities.

Mrs. Aisha Gombe pointed out the significance of collaboration between geology and civil engineering departments in training institutions, noting a lack of engineering geology labs in geology departments. She called for joint efforts between regulatory councils to foster professionalism and safety in the industry.

Dele Ayankele, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, expressed concerns over the absence of sustainable policies in the sector, identifying this as a major barrier to growth. He urged for the implementation of recommendations from a 2016 government committee tasked with sector transformation to attract investment through technological innovations.

The conference, running from February 16 to 21, will cover topics such as resource management in mining and the role of geoscience in agriculture and food security.

The conference has highlighted the urgent need for collaboration among Nigeria’s mining stakeholders to strengthen the sector. Key discussions focused on data centralisation, joint training efforts, and the implementation of sustainable policies to encourage local and international investment. Emphasis was placed on improving technological innovation and research capabilities as pathways for sector advancement.

Original Source: nannews.ng

The post Collaboration Urged to Enhance Nigeria’s Mining Sector Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France are strengthening their collaboration to enhance mining development following a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement was discussed at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, where Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and French Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, Benjamin Gallezot, sought to promote sustainable mining practices and decarbonisation in energy projects.

Gallezot announced that his department is reviewing applications from French companies wishing to invest in Nigeria’s mining sector and will provide a list of verified investors to the Nigerian ministry. Minister Alake expressed gratitude to Gallezot for his cooperation despite time constraints during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France, addressing misinformation regarding the MOU’s objectives.

The MOU includes plans for research collaboration, knowledge sharing, and environmental rehabilitation, focusing on over 2,000 abandoned mining sites in Nigeria. During the Forum, discussions centred on sustainable practices, artisanal mining, geological exploration, and funding for training programmes.

Olusegun Ige, Director-General of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, highlighted the need for modern equipment to improve geological data exploration. Similarly, Simon Nkom from the Mining Cadastral Office urged for a comparative analysis of mining laws between the two nations.

Executive Secretary Fatima Shinkafi suggested co-funding for early-stage exploration projects, stating that the Nigerian Solid Minerals Fund has accumulated significant historical data from collaborations with financial entities. Christophe Poinssot from the French Geological Agency confirmed support for increasing geologist capacity in Africa, including Nigeria.

The MOU signed between Nigeria and France seeks to boost the mining sector in Nigeria through sustainable practices and technology advancement. It aims to address issues like environmental impact and rehabilitation of defunct mining sites, thus promoting a stronger, more responsible mining industry. The collaboration also involves sharing knowledge and coordinating training programmes to enhance the skills of those in the mining sector.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France marks a significant step in enhancing Nigeria’s mining development through sustainable practices and investment. The MOU aims to tackle environmental issues while promoting technological advancements and knowledge sharing. With committed efforts from both countries, the potential for growth in the Nigerian mining sector appears promising, benefiting both economies.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate to Advance Mining Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have initiated actions to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last month in Paris aimed at enhancing local mining development. This was discussed during the Future Minerals Forum held in Riyadh between Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s inter-ministerial delegate for strategic minerals. The MOU focuses on sustainable mining, environmental protection, and energy decarbonisation.

Gallezot mentioned that his department is evaluating applications from French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector. A shortlist of eligible investors will be sent to the Nigerian Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Alake acknowledged the cooperation that led to the MOU’s establishment, countering any misinformation from political opposition regarding its objectives.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France aims to boost the mining sector in Nigeria by enhancing sustainable practices and cutting environmental impact. The MOU facilitates research partnerships, student training, and rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites. This partnership arises amidst a global focus on sustainable mining and resource management, which could attract investments and modernize Nigeria’s mining infrastructure.

Both countries are committed to fostering a robust mining sector through their MOU, focusing on sustainability, advanced technology, and investor engagement. Discussions at the forum highlighted essential areas such as artisanal mining and geological exploration, paving the way for improved mining laws and practices. The collaboration is expected to generate significant positive outcomes for Nigeria’s mining landscape.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate to Enhance Mining Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

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

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Collaboration through MOU 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.

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

The post Nigeria and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Mining Sector Collaboration 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 Saudi Arabia are rekindling efforts to strengthen their geological agencies, drawing on advancements made by Saudi firms in mineral exploration. At a recent meeting during the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Minister of Mining Engr Bandar Al-Khorayef announced collaboration between government and private sectors to integrate innovative mining technologies, with new products showcased at the event to enhance awareness.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, proposed a collaboration targeting economic advantages through the value chain of the minerals sector. By referring to the successful Saudi gold market, he suggested allowing Nigerian gold refineries access to this market to foster mutual economic growth and expansion opportunities.

Dr Alake, alongside the Minister of State for Finance Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, engaged with the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to attract investments into Nigeria’s mining sector, highlighting significant lithium and iron ore deposits. He assured that the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency will provide essential mineral data to mitigate investors’ risks.

With the global shift towards electric vehicles requiring lithium batteries, Dr Alake noted Nigeria’s strategic position as a key mineral supplier, aiming to boost the export of refined industrial inputs. He cited successful examples in Saudi Arabia’s steel production and mentioned similar capabilities within Nigeria for processing iron ore.

The meeting highlighted Nigeria’s advanced laboratories for mineral analysis, which can support mining projects by providing certified services in West Africa. This initiative aims to solidify both nations’ partnership in the mining sector, ensuring sustainable growth and development for their economies.

The article discusses the renewed partnership between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia aimed at enhancing their geological and mining capacities. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to leverage the advancements in mineral exploration technology developed by Saudi firms. The discussions at the Future Minerals Forum emphasise the importance of cooperation between the two countries to boost mutual economic benefits, particularly in the mining and mineral processing sectors, with a focus on integrating finished goods into global markets.

The renewed plans between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia focus on enhancing geological agency capacities and promoting collaboration in the mining sector. By leveraging technological advancements and developing market access, both countries aim to bolster their economies and ensure sustainable development. The initiative shows promise in increasing investments and refining product exports in key mineral sectors.

Original Source: thesun.ng

The post Nigeria and Saudi Arabia Collaborate on Geological Agency Capacity Building first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia are set to enhance their mining sectors by collaborating on geological capabilities, following advancements made by Saudi companies in mineral exploration. This decision arose during a meeting held at the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh, to discuss mutual economic benefits and technological innovations in mining.

Saudi Minister of Mining, Engr Bandar Al-Khorayef, highlighted the collaboration between public and private sectors to adopt new mineral exploration technologies, with products showcased at the conference to boost visibility and market awareness.

During the discussions, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, proposed partnerships along the mining industry’s value chain, citing Nigeria’s gold refineries as potential entrants to the Saudi market with protection clauses benefiting both nations’ economies.

The Nigerian delegation, which included Dr Alake and Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, appealed to the Saudi Chamber of Commerce for investment in Nigeria’s mining sector, particularly focusing on lithium and iron ore resources in line with current policies promoting value addition.

Dr. Alake indicated that the global shift towards electric vehicles has positioned Nigeria as a key provider of essential minerals, asserting that partnerships with Saudi investors could enhance the export of processed industrial materials. He referenced the examples of steel production and iron ore processing within Nigeria as predictions of potential success.

Alake mentioned the availability of advanced laboratories for mineral analysis in Nigeria, promoting efficient mining operations, and asserting Nigeria’s status as home to West Africa’s best-certified mineral laboratories.

The discussion between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia revolves around optimising their mining potential through technological collaboration. Given Saudi Arabia’s advances in mineral exploration, Nigeria seeks to leverage these advancements to boost its own mining capabilities. Both nations are keen to establish partnerships that enhance investment opportunities, particularly in sectors like lithium and iron ore, that align with global market trends towards sustainable energy solutions.

The renewed partnership between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia aims to improve mining operations and investment through collaborative efforts in technological advancements and market accessibility. By establishing joint ventures and harnessing shared resources, both countries can effectively enhance their mining sectors, contributing to economic growth and expanded export opportunities.

Original Source: von.gov.ng

The post Nigeria and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Mining Partnership for Economic Growth 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.