Australia, Nigeria partner to develop mining sector

Australia and Nigeria are set to enhance partnerships in the mining sector to promote the sector’s sustainability in line with the Federal Government’s development agenda.

According to a statement from the Australian High Commission in Abuja on Thursday, a two-day capacity building workshop on the mining sector would be held to enhance partnership between both countries.

The workshop organised by the Australian High Commission and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, would provide information on best practices from Western Australia on building a sustainable mining sector.

Other aims of the workshop include building the Nigerian Solid Mineral sector’s capacity to deliver enhanced mineral exploration and mining regimes.

It would also promote ongoing education and training in mineral policy governance, foster partnerships for knowledge sharing and skills transfer to ensure leading practice in Nigeria.

Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Amb. Paul Lehmann, in the statement, described Australia as “one of the world’s leading mineral resources nations”.

“We are the world’s largest refiner of bauxite, fourth largest producer of primary aluminium, the largest producer of gem and industrial diamonds, lead and tantalum, and the mineral sands rutile and zircon.

“We are the third largest producer of gold and iron ore.; as such, we have a wealth of knowledge to share with Nigeria to assist its economic diversification drive.

“We are delighted to be able to host this workshop in close partnership with the Nigerian Ministry of Mines and Steel Development,” he said.

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