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.

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.

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.