The Nigerian and South African governments held a high-level meeting on April 16, 2025, to enhance cooperation in the mining sector. This event was part of the Nigeria–South Africa Technical Working Visit focusing on geology, mining, and mineral processing, hosted at Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Abuja. Key officials included Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, and South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Gwede Mantashe.

In his address, Alake noted the strong historical ties between the two countries and their roles as Africa’s largest economies. He highlighted the need for strategic partnerships in mining to boost industrial transformation on the continent. He asserted that collaboration can help bridge technology and infrastructure gaps in Africa’s mineral resource management.

Alake revealed plans for a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in geology and mineral processing. This agreement is set to promote technology transfer, investment, capacity building, and value addition to minerals prior to export. He pointed out Nigeria’s wealth in critical minerals and the benefits of South Africa’s experienced mining sector.

Minister Gwede Mantashe acknowledged Nigeria’s mineral potential, citing over 40 different minerals across the nation. Although only coal and iron ore attract investment, Mantashe urged leveraging South Africa’s advanced mining capabilities for Nigeria’s benefit. He identified three major issues hindering Nigeria’s mining development: limited government participation, an overreliance on oil and gas, and inadequate power supply.

Mantashe proposed collaboration between South African and Nigerian agencies to foster skills development and invest in mineral processing. He suggested joint ventures could enhance resource assessments and promote sustainable mining practices. Furthermore, he recommended exchanges between regulatory bodies to improve governance and environmental practices.

The meeting concluded with strong commitments from both nations to develop the mining sectors, create local industries, and generate job opportunities. Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, reinforced the importance of building enduring partnerships through joint ventures and capacity building. The gathering is seen as a step towards a strategic alliance that benefits both Nigeria and South Africa while unlocking mineral wealth on the continent.

The meeting between Nigeria and South Africa marks a significant step toward collaboration in the mining sector. Both nations are committed to enhancing cooperation through a planned memorandum of understanding, focusing on investment, technology transfer, and capacity building. By combining resources and expertise, they aim to transform Africa’s mineral wealth into economic growth and sustainable development, benefiting both countries and the continent as a whole.

Original Source: sciencenigeria.com

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