By Abdullahi Lukman
Nigeria and South Africa have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing the mining sector and promoting industrialization and job creation in both countries.
The agreement, signed in Abuja, seeks to deepen bilateral cooperation in the solid minerals sector, which both nations view as essential for economic growth and sustainable development.
The MoU was formalized during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe.
This agreement is part of broader efforts under the recently revitalized Nigeria–South Africa Bi-National Commission, a diplomatic initiative led by Presidents Bola Tinubu and Cyril Ramaphosa.
The partnership focuses on technology transfer, investment promotion, skills development, and regional integration.
Dr. Alake held that the mining sector has significant potential to transform Africa’s economic landscape and is crucial for creating long-term prosperity.
He noted that the agreement would help build a robust mining ecosystem and enhance the technical capacity needed for value addition and sustainable development.
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Dr. Alake said the collaboration aligns with the Nigerian government’s goal of diversifying the economy, with the mining sector playing a pivotal role in this strategy.
He pointed out that while Nigeria has vast untapped mineral resources, South Africa’s decades of experience in mining governance, operations, and financing make the partnership a strong fit.
Minister Mantashe welcomed the agreement, stressing that South Africa is eager to expand its presence in Africa through knowledge sharing and industrial cooperation.
He added that his visit was focused on translating the diplomatic commitments made during the Bi-National Commission summit into actionable projects.
Key aspects of the MoU include initiatives to develop local expertise in geoscience, including the use of drones for geological applications, and collaboration on advanced mineral exploration technologies such as remote sensing for geological mapping.
The agreement also includes provisions for the sharing of critical minerals data through the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency and training programs focused on mineral processing and beneficiation.
Both countries will collaborate on exploring Nigeria’s vast deposits of agro-minerals and energy resources.
Both ministers affirmed their commitment to implementing the MoU within a set timeline, with regular reviews and joint evaluations to monitor progress.
