The Nigerian government has dismissed claims of a French takeover of its mining sector, clarifying that an MOU signed during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France is intended to encourage cooperation in mining and enhance Nigeria’s industry capabilities. The government emphasizes that it retains full sovereignty over its resources while pursuing sustainable practices and economic development.
The Nigerian government has refuted allegations suggesting that the country has ceded its mining rights to France, emphasizing their collaborative efforts to enhance the mining sector. Following President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to France, during which a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed to promote and diversify critical minerals value chains, misinformation arose regarding Nigeria’s supposed loss of control over its mining industry.
Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser for Media & Public Communication to President Tinubu, clarified on Friday that the MOU aims to facilitate cooperation between Nigeria and France in areas such as research, training, and skills development. He firmly stated, “The French are not taking over. Nowhere in the document was it agreed or suggested that Nigeria has signed away mining rights to the French, nor does it connote anything against Nigeria’s economic and security interests as being maliciously circulated. No.”
Dare further explained that the agreement is designed to promote sustainable mining practices and mitigate the environmental impacts associated with mining activities. He asserted that both governments have established a mutual understanding to develop cooperative projects that would enhance and diversify the critical minerals value chain within the solid minerals sector of both nations.
The Nigerian government reiterated its complete sovereignty over all natural resources, asserting that the MOU is specifically formulated to bolster Nigeria’s mining capabilities and stimulate economic growth.
The recent claims regarding a French takeover of Nigeria’s mining sector surfaced following President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France, during which both nations signed an MOU to enhance collaborative efforts in the mining industry. This move aimed to diversify and develop critical minerals value chains but sparked unfounded rumors suggesting a loss of sovereignty over Nigerian mining rights. The government’s response highlights ongoing partnerships that prioritize Nigeria’s economic interests and the integrity of its resource management.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government stands firm against claims of relinquished mining rights to France, asserting instead that the newly established MOU fosters collaboration aimed at improving both nations’ mining sectors. Through this agreement, Nigeria seeks to enhance its mining capabilities, pursue sustainable mining practices, and maintain governance over its natural resources. The commitment to partnerships reflects a strategic approach to promoting economic development while assuring national sovereignty over mining operations.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
