By Lucy Adautin
Nigeria and South Africa have entered into a new agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration in the mining sector, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development announced on Thursday, underscoring the country’s efforts to reduce its reliance on oil.
The pact was signed in Abuja by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe.
According to Alake, the two nations will work together on various mining initiatives, including geological mapping via drone technology, sharing of mineral data, and joint exploration of agro and energy-related minerals within Nigeria.
In a statement issued by Mr Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the memorandum of understanding was described as part of broader efforts to enhance cooperation through the Nigeria–South Africa Bi-National Commission framework.
Tomori highlighted that the agreement outlines clearly defined areas of collaboration, along with set timelines for implementing joint initiatives within the mining industry.
“Both ministers pledged ongoing engagement to advance intra-African trade and implement practical steps outlined in the agreement,” Tomori said.
They further expressed confidence that the renewed alliance would significantly enhance both countries’ mining sectors by leveraging shared knowledge and technological advancement.
Notable aspects of the agreement include training in geological techniques using UAVs and the use of spectral remote sensing tools for mineral exploration and mapping.
The deal also covers geoscientific data exchange facilitated by the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, training in mineral processing, and initiatives aimed at adding value to mineral resources.
Additionally, the MoU promotes skill development in elemental fingerprinting using LA-ICP-MS and joint efforts to explore agro and energy minerals within Nigeria.
Alake stressed that this bilateral collaboration has the potential to drive industrialisation, create employment, and support sustainable economic progress across Africa.
“The agreement on geology, mining, and mineral processing will foster knowledge exchange, promote investment, and encourage regional integration,” the minister affirmed.
He reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to growing its mining sector, citing the mutual advantages of combining the country’s mineral resources with South Africa’s technological capabilities.
According to Alake, this partnership will help attract investment, enhance skills, and play a key role in diversifying Nigeria’s economy for long-term resilience and growth.
