The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France to develop joint projects in the solid minerals sector. .
The MOU was signed on the sidelines of President Tinubu's official visit to France. According to the Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the agreement will open up new opportunities for the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria.
"The signing of this MOU marks a significant milestone in our efforts to develop the solid minerals sector in Nigeria," said Dr. Alake. "We are confident that this partnership will not only boost our economy but also create jobs and improve the lives of our citizens."
The partnership will also focus on promoting sustainable mining activities, reducing environmental impact, and improving the conditions of local communities affected by mining. Both countries have agreed to adopt international best practices and prioritize transparency in the execution of projects.
According to the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuelle Clément.
"We are committed to supporting Nigeria's economic development and diversification efforts," said Mr. Clément
The Nigerian government believes that this partnership will boost the country's solid minerals sector and make it more competitive internationally. The Minister for Solid Minerals Development is optimistic that the partnership will attract French investors to Nigeria's mining sector.
"This partnership is a game-changer for our solid minerals sector," said Dr. Alake. "We are confident that it will attract significant investment and create jobs for our citizens."
The solid minerals sector is a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, accounting for over 10% of the country's GDP. However, the sector has faced several challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of investment, and environmental degradation.
The partnership with France is expected to address some of these challenges and promote sustainable development in the sector. The agreement will also facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise from France to Nigeria, which will help to improve the efficiency and productivity of the sector.
In addition, the partnership will promote cooperation between Nigerian and French companies in the solid minerals sector. This will help to increase trade and investment between the two countries and promote economic growth and development.
The Nigerian government has expressed its commitment to ensuring that the partnership is beneficial to both countries and promotes sustainable development in the solid minerals sector.
"We are committed to ensuring that this partnership is transparent, accountable, and beneficial to both countries," said Dr. Alake. "We will work closely with our French partners to ensure that the partnership promotes sustainable development and improves the lives of our citizens."
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