Nigeria and France have signed an MOU to boost cooperation in the critical minerals sector. The partnership focuses on sustainable mining practices, environmental rehabilitation of abandoned pits, and knowledge transfer. It aims to diversify the minerals value chain, promote decarbonization, and attract investment into Nigeria’s mining sector.
Nigeria and France have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the critical minerals sector in both countries, with a special focus on sustainability and environmental protection. This agreement, signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to France, aims to promote joint ventures in mining, research, and training, as well as foster Franco-Nigerian student exchanges for knowledge transfer.
The MOU centers on the exploration and diversification of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and copper, which are essential for clean energy technologies. Both nations have committed to implementing sustainable mining practices that reduce environmental impacts like carbon emissions and water consumption, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Additionally, the partnership will support joint mining and processing projects, co-financed by public and private sectors, to secure the supply of these vital minerals. The MOU also emphasizes international best practices and transparency in the execution of these projects, with a particular focus on improving conditions for local communities affected by mining activities.
One key outcome of the agreement is the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria. The partnership will focus on rehabilitating these sites and conducting post-mining interventions. Both governments aim to create opportunities for capacity building through training, seminars, and events, ultimately boosting the effectiveness of the critical minerals sector.
