France reaffirms support for Nigeria’s mining sector development, Alake reveals

Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has disclosed that France has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

According to Alake in a statement posted on his official X platform on Sunday, March 2, 2025, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, pledged the support during a courtesy call on the Minister.

He disclosed that Ambassador Fonbaustier emphasised France’s keen interest in investing in Nigeria’s rapidly growing solid minerals sector, aligning with the country’s roadmap for mining development.

“During a courtesy visit by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Marc Fonbaustier, I was pleased to hear his reaffirmation of France’s commitment to being a formidable ally in developing our solid minerals sector. He spoke about how France fully supports our roadmap for mining development and has a keen interest in investment.

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“I acknowledged France’s leading position among prospective stakeholders interested in our solid minerals sector. I am optimistic that our long-standing and robust bilateral relationship will be further strengthened through key initiatives in the solid minerals sector, backed by actionable goals and clear timelines” Alake wrote.

Corroborating the Ambassador, Deputy Head, Regional Economic Department of the French Embassy, Carole Libreton expressed France’s readiness to fund projects in the mining corporation and collaborate with the ministry to galvanize French companies for development of the mining value chain.

The Minister welcomed France’s enthusiasm, commitment, and readiness to implement tangible projects, acknowledging the country’s frontline position among prospective stakeholders.

By: Babajide Okeowo

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