Abuja, Nigeria — In a significant step toward advancing sustainable mining practices and bolstering the energy transition, the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France to collaborate on solid minerals development. The agreement underscores the importance of critical minerals like copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements in clean energy technologies.
The partnership, formalized during President Tinubu’s official visit to France, outlines a framework for joint research, training, and student exchange programs to facilitate knowledge and skills transfer between the two nations.
A Focus on Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The MoU places a strong emphasis on reducing the environmental footprint of mining operations. According to a statement by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to Nigeria’s Minister for Solid Minerals Development, the agreement includes provisions for co-financing public and private projects aimed at decarbonizing energy initiatives.
“A key component of the MoU is the promotion of sustainable mining activities by executing projects that minimize carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change impacts,” the statement noted.
Additionally, the deal is expected to address the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria, a critical issue highlighted by the recent loss of at least 65 lives in mining-related tragedies across the country.
Boosting International Competitiveness
The MoU was signed by Nigeria’s Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and France’s Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Critical Ores and Metals, Mr. Benjamin Gallezot. Both countries pledged to adhere to international best practices in project execution, with a focus on improving conditions for communities affected by mining activities and ensuring transparency.
“This partnership is a major boost to the Tinubu administration’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s solid minerals sector for international competitiveness,” Dr. Alake stated. “We will leverage this collaboration to attract French investors and unlock the potential of our mining sector.”
Strengthening Sectoral Capacity
The agreement also aims to enhance the capacity of stakeholders in the mining sector through regular training sessions, seminars, and international events. These initiatives are designed to equip administrators with the tools to better manage the critical metals value chain.
By combining sustainable practices with economic growth strategies, the partnership seeks to secure the supply of critical minerals essential for global energy transition while fostering development in Nigeria’s mining communities.
As both nations prepare to implement the MoU, the deal represents a forward-looking approach to transforming Nigeria’s solid minerals sector into a hub for sustainable development and international collaboration.