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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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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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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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

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