Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Nigeria and France have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, to develop joint projects aimed at promoting and diversifying the critical minerals value chain within the solid minerals sector of both countries.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, signed the agreement on behalf of Nigeria, while Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, the Inter-Ministerial delegate for Critical Ores and Metals of the Republic of France, signed for France.
The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation between the two countries in the development of critical minerals, including joint research initiatives, training programs, and sustainable mining practices.
According to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the partnership aims to promote the development of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, while also addressing environmental and social concerns.
Alake on his verified X handle said the agreement is expected to boost Nigeria’s economy and provide opportunities for job creation, skills development, and technology transfer.
He said, “I am pleased to share that Nigeria and France have reached an agreement to develop joint projects aimed at promoting and diversifying the critical minerals value chain within the solid minerals sector of both our countries.
“We signed a Memorandum of Understanding that establishes our commitment to collaborate on research, training, and student exchanges between Franco-Nigerian institutions to facilitate knowledge and skills transfer.
“A significant aspect of this MOU is our dedication to promoting sustainable mining activities. We will implement projects and programs designed to minimize the environmental impact of mining, addressing issues related to carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change.
“Additionally, the agreement includes plans for establishing joint extraction and processing projects, supported by co-financing from both public and private sectors. This initiative aims to diversify and secure the supply of critical minerals while decarbonizing energy projects that are vital to the value chain.
“Together, we have committed to adopting international best practices in the execution of these projects, ensuring that we improve the conditions for local communities affected by mining, with a strong emphasis on transparency,” Alake said.
