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.

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 has reinstated mining exploration in Zamfara state following a five-year ban, attributed to improved security measures. Mining Minister Dele Alake announced that the decision comes after significant reductions in insecurity, promising to enable Zamfara’s valuable resources, including gold and lithium, to contribute more significantly to national revenue. During the ban, illegal mining had flourished, undermining legitimate operations and state resources.

To stimulate investment in its mining sector, which currently accounts for less than 1% of Nigeria’s GDP, the government is implementing several reforms. These include revoking inactive mining licences, allowing a 75% investor stake in a new national mining company, and enforcing stricter regulations against illegal mining. Nigeria has also begun international collaborations to enhance its mining capabilities, signing a training agreement with France. Alake emphasised the need for global support for further technical and financial assistance, referencing previous partnerships with Germany and Australia.

The mining sector in Nigeria has faced significant challenges due to security issues, particularly in the northwestern state of Zamfara, which is rich in minerals like gold and lithium. The government had to suspend mining activities in 2019 due to rampant banditry and illegal mining. As part of an economic diversification strategy away from oil dependence, Nigeria aims to develop its mining sector, which requires improved security, regulatory reforms, and international cooperation.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara marks a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector and increasing its economic contributions. With investments, regulatory reforms, and international partnerships, Nigeria aims to leverage its mineral wealth while tackling the past issues of insecurity and illegal mining practices. The focus on technical assistance and capacity building highlights the country’s commitment to revitalising this important industry.

Original Source: www.mining.com

The post Nigeria Resumes Mining in Zamfara State After Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government has refuted allegations claiming it has surrendered mining rights to France, following President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France which resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing collaboration in the mining sector. Sunday Dare, the president’s Special Adviser on Media & Public Communication, stated that the MOU focuses on joint efforts in research, training, and sustainable mining practices, denying any loss of sovereignty over Nigeria’s natural resources. Furthermore, he emphasised that the agreement seeks to reduce the environmental impact of mining while promoting economic development and diversifying critical minerals value chains within both countries.

Following Nigeria’s signing of an MOU with France to enhance the mining sector, there were widespread rumours suggesting that this agreement entailed a transfer of control to France. Such claims raised concerns about Nigeria’s sovereignty over its mining rights, prompting a need for clarification from government officials. The MOU is intended to create beneficial partnerships that advance the mining industry without compromising Nigeria’s interests or resources, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in developing critical minerals.

The Nigerian government has made it clear that it has not relinquished its mining rights to France despite the recent MOU. The agreement primarily aims at fostering collaboration in mining practices while maintaining Nigeria’s sovereignty over its resources. Officials have reiterated that the focus is on sustainable practices and enhancing the industry’s economic potential, dispelling any concerns of foreign domination in Nigeria’s mining sector.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigeria Refutes Claims of French Takeover in Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO), Obadiah Nkom, has highlighted the alarming statistic that only 1,000 out of 7,141 mining licenses are currently active. During a meeting with the House Committee on Solid Minerals led by Jonathan Gaza, he called for reforms in the sector, especially regarding mining fees and ownership of titles. Despite generating over N8 billion in revenue, the NMCO struggles with inadequate funding. Nkom noted that the office has made strides in digitisation and is working with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to tackle illegal activities. Gaza expressed concerns over the licensing process and promised to relay the issues to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for further action.

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office is responsible for regulating mining licenses in Nigeria. There has been a significant discrepancy between the number of issued mining licenses and the actual number of active mines, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the licensing process. The agency has generated substantial revenue from the sector, yet it faces challenges such as inadequate funding and the prevalence of illegal mining activities.

The discussion between NMCO leadership and the House Committee aims to address the underutilisation of mining licenses and seek necessary reforms. With a need for better funding and management of mining activities, the NMCO is striving to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Nigerian mining sector.

Original Source: gazettengr.com

The post NMCO Director General Advocates Reform for Underutilised Mining Licences first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.