Nigeria and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to diversify and promote the critical minerals value chain in the solid minerals sector, with a focus on sustainability and economic growth.
The agreement was signed in Paris by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and France’s Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Critical Ores and Metals, Benjamin Gallezot, during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the country.
Speaking after the signing, Alake emphasized the importance of the partnership in unlocking Nigeria’s mineral wealth while fostering sustainability. “This agreement will allow us to collaborate on critical minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements that are essential for clean energy technologies,” he said.
The MoU highlights efforts to establish joint projects, co-financed by both public and private entities, to secure critical mineral supplies and decarbonize energy processes. Additionally, the agreement will promote research and training initiatives, including student exchanges between the two nations.
“This partnership includes adopting international best practices to improve the lives of communities affected by mining while ensuring transparency in all operations,” Alake added.
The French delegation, led by Gallezot, reiterated France’s commitment to sustainable mining and fostering mutually beneficial relations. “We are determined to support Nigeria’s vision of creating a robust and sustainable mining sector,” he stated.
Both nations agreed to prioritize reducing carbon emissions, water consumption, and other environmental impacts of mining, ensuring that projects align with global sustainability standards.
