Nigeria and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen and diversify critical value chains in their solid minerals sectors. The agreement was finalized during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France, as confirmed by Segun Tomori, media aide to Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

The MoU, signed by Minister Alake and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s inter-ministerial delegate for critical ores and metals, focuses on collaboration in research, training, and Franco-Nigerian student exchanges to enhance knowledge and skill transfer.

“A key component of the MoU is the promotion of sustainable mining activities by executing projects and programs that reduce the environmental impact of mining on carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change,” said Tomori.

The agreement also includes joint extraction and processing initiatives co-financed by public and private entities. These projects aim to secure the supply of critical minerals while supporting decarbonized energy solutions in the value chain.

Additionally, both nations committed to international best practices, emphasizing transparency and ensuring local communities benefit from mining projects. Over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria will be rehabilitated through integrated environmental restoration and post-mining initiatives.

The MoU also provides for regular bilateral training sessions, seminars, and events to enhance administrative capacity in managing the sector’s value chain.

Describing the partnership as transformative, Alake stated, “This agreement marks a significant step towards repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector for global competitiveness.” He emphasized the federal government’s dedication to leveraging the MoU to attract French investment and unlock the sector’s full potential.