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.

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 France have solidified their partnership following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Paris. In a recent meeting at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, both countries agreed on France upgrading Nigeria’s geological laboratories and providing advanced technology.
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, and France’s Benjamin Gallezot discussed information exchange on mining laws and illegal mining. Gallezot indicated that they are evaluating French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector.
Dr Alake expressed gratitude for the MOU established during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France. The forum was pivotal for advancing collaboration between Nigeria and France in mining through effective programmes and policies.
Professor Olusegun Ige highlighted the need for advanced technology for geological exploration, which has suffered due to equipment shortages. He advocated for the development of local expertise through international training in mining.
Engr Simon Nkom urged a comparative analysis of mining laws in both countries to facilitate improvements. Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi proposed a co-funding model for early-stage exploration projects with French financial institutions.
Christophe Poinssot from France’s geological agency pledged Nigeria’s inclusion in Africa’s geological training funding program, having benefited over 1,000 geologists in the past. He also confirmed plans to improve Nigeria’s geological laboratory facilities to international standards.

The article discusses the strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and France in the mining sector, particularly focusing on technological upgrades and investment opportunities. It outlines the commitments established through a recent MOU aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s mining capabilities and expertise through training and resource sharing. By facilitating advanced technology and fostering cooperation on legal frameworks, both countries aim to bolster their mining industries.

In summary, Nigeria and France have formed a robust partnership to enhance the mining sector through advanced technology, training, and legal exchange. The ongoing collaboration aims to improve geological exploration and attract investments from French companies. Joint efforts are expected to yield significant benefits for both nations, facilitating mutual growth in the mining industry.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nigeria and France Enhance Mining Collaboration Through MOU 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.