Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a significant move to revolutionize Nigeria’s mining industry, the Australian government has offered to collaborate with Nigeria on cutting-edge mining technology.
The partnership aims to enhance Nigeria’s mining operations and boost the sector’s contribution to the country’s economy.
Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency Leilani Bin-Juda, made the offer during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, where she highlighted Australia’s expertise in mining technology and its potential to transform Nigeria’s mining sector.
Bin-Juda said the collaboration will focus on the introduction of a new free platform developed by Geoscience Australia, designed specifically for Africa.
According to her, the platform leverages satellite data to track and monitor mining activities across the continent, offering free, high-quality training and real-time data access.
The High Commissioner who formally invited the Minister to attend the African Down Under conference, which is set to take place in Perth, Australia, highlighted Australia’s renowned status in the global mining industry, its abundant mineral resources and advanced mining technologies.
She said, “As a leading producer of key minerals such as iron ore, coal, gold, and bauxite, Australia plays a critical role in this sector.
“Australia is renowned for its advanced mining technologies and abundant mineral resources. We believe that our expertise can complement Nigeria’s rich mineral deposits, leading to a significant boost in the sector’s productivity and efficiency.”
Responding, the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, who welcomed the offer, stated that Nigeria was committed to deepening its relationship with Australia, particularly in the solid minerals sector.
“We recognize the potential of this partnership to transform our mining industry and contribute to the country’s economic growth,” he said.
The partnership is expected to enhance the skills and knowledge of Nigerian mining professionals through short courses hosted by Australian institutions, as well as facilitate the exchange of ideas and expertise between Nigerian and Australian mining experts.
