The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France to “develop joint projects” aimed at diversifying the value chain of critical minerals. These minerals, which include copper, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are the building blocks of clean energy technologies.
According to a statement released on Sunday by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the agreement promises opportunities for addressing the country’s environmental nightmares, including the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits. Over 2,000 pits have been left as a glaring testament to decades of environmental neglect in the sector.
This deal, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France, includes collaborative efforts on research, training, and Franco-Nigerian student exchanges for knowledge and skills transfer. On paper, the statement reads,
“A key component of the MOU is the promotion of sustainable mining activities by executing projects and programmes that reduce the environmental impact of mining on carbon emissions, water consumption, and climate change.”
Just recently, at least 65 people lost their lives in separate mining pit collapses across the country. This isn’t just a tragedy, it’s a damning indictment of the state of Nigeria’s mining industry, a sector that has failed to prioritize safety, sustainability, and the well-being of those directly affected.
The MOU also outlines plans for co-financed joint extractive and processing projects, aiming to diversify and secure the supply of critical minerals while decarbonizing energy projects in the value chain. It all sounds very “global leader” until you remember that Nigeria’s history with international partnerships has often been a one-sided affair, with foreign entities reaping the lion’s share of the benefits.
Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister for Solid Minerals Development, signed the deal on behalf of Nigeria, while France was represented by Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Critical Ores and Metals. Both nations pledged to adopt international best practices to improve conditions for local communities affected by mining.
The Tinubu administration is parading this agreement as a major step toward repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector for international competitiveness. Dr. Alake even highlighted the potential to attract French investors. But before we roll out the red carpet for international financiers, maybe we should address the pressing needs of those whose lives have been upended by unsafe mining practices.
