The Nigerian government has dismissed rumors suggesting it ceded control of its mining sector to France following President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the European nation.
The speculations emerged after Nigeria and France signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during Tinubu’s state visit, aimed at enhancing the development and diversification of critical mineral value chains.
In a statement issued on Friday, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Tinubu, clarified that the MOU focuses on collaboration in research, training, and skill development for sustainable mining practices.
“The French are not taking over. The agreement does not grant France any mining rights in Nigeria, nor does it compromise Nigeria’s economic or security interests,” Dare stated on the social media platform X.
He emphasized that the partnership seeks to foster sustainable mining practices, mitigate environmental impacts, and promote joint projects benefiting both nations.
The Nigerian government assured citizens that the country retains full sovereignty over its natural resources and that the agreement is designed to bolster Nigeria’s mining capabilities, supporting economic growth and development.