The Nigerian government has dismissed rumors suggesting that it ceded control of its mining sector to France following a recent visit to the European nation.
The Nigerian government has firmly denied rumors suggesting that it ceded control of its mining sector to France following President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the European country.
Speculations arose after a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Nigeria and France during Tinubu’s state visit, focusing on the development and diversification of critical mineral value chains.
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Affairs, clarified on Friday that the MOU is centered on collaboration in research, training, and skills development for sustainable mining practices.
“France is not taking over. The agreement does not grant France any mining rights in Nigeria or compromise Nigeria’s economic or security interests,” Dare stated on the social media platform X.
The partnership aims to promote sustainable mining practices, reduce environmental impacts, and encourage joint projects that will benefit both nations.
The Nigerian government assured citizens of the country’s full sovereignty over its natural resources, emphasizing that the agreement is designed to enhance Nigeria’s mining capacity, contributing to economic growth and development.
