Nigeria and South Africa have formalised a landmark agreement to collaborate on mining development, aiming to drive investment, enhance technical capacity, and deepen regional integration across Africa’s mineral-rich landscape.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), 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, marks a significant step in strengthening ties under the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission.
Speaking after the signing, Alake’s media aide, Segun Tomori, said the accord outlines clear collaborative objectives and timelines, setting the stage for practical cooperation in key areas of the mining value chain.
Under the agreement, both countries will share expertise in geological surveying using drone technology, apply spectral remote sensing tools in mineral mapping, and exchange critical geoscientific data through national agencies.
The deal also covers joint training in mineral processing, local value addition strategies, and advanced elemental fingerprinting using LA-ICP-MS. Exploration of agro-minerals and energy resources within Nigeria is also on the table.
Both ministers affirmed their commitment to sustained engagement, noting that the partnership is designed not only to benefit both countries but to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda.
Alake described the pact as a catalyst for job creation, skills development, and economic diversification, positioning mining as a pillar for long-term stability and prosperity.
“This cooperation unlocks a future of shared innovation, investment, and sustainable growth,” Alake said.