France Strengthens Ties With Nigeria on Solid Minerals Development
The French government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in the solid minerals sector.
French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, over the weekend. According to a statement by Segun Tomori, FSCA, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Fonbaustier highlighted France’s strong interest in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector and supporting the country’s solid minerals development roadmap.
Dr. Alake welcomed France’s proactive involvement, describing the European nation as a key stakeholder that has shown “enthusiasm, commitment, and readiness to implement tangible projects.” He expressed optimism that their bilateral relations would be further strengthened through concrete initiatives with clear timelines.
The minister also emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to economic diversification, with solid minerals development being a major focus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He called for continued collaboration to attract serious investors and finalize partnership areas under a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU, signed during President Tinubu’s state visit to France last year, aims to expand and diversify Nigeria’s critical minerals value chain. It focuses on technical assistance, capacity building, and the rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites.
Deputy Head of the Regional Economic Department of the French Embassy, Carole Libreton, reaffirmed France’s willingness to finance projects in the sector and attract French companies to invest in Nigeria’s mining industry. She was joined by Florent Mangin, Head of the Regional Economic Department, during the visit.
