Nigeria, Türkiye move to strengthen mining operations with MoU signing

By Gabriel Ewepu

Nigeria, Türkiye Deepen Mining Cooperation Through New MoU”

The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Türkiye have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening mining operations, deepening technical collaboration, and expanding investment flows between both countries in the solid minerals and energy sectors.

“The MoU signed by the Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake and Türkiye’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, also marks a significant step towards deepening economic collaboration between both countries,” according to a statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Lara Owoeye-Wise.

Alake said Nigeria is positioning itself to benefit from Türkiye’s technological strength and industrial experience in mining development. “Nigeria is ready to leverage Türkiye’s technological advancement and expertise in mining exploration, training, digitisation, licensing systems, and capacity building to accelerate reforms and growth within the sector.”

He added, “Türkiye is one of the countries we are confident of building strong bilateral cooperation with, particularly in the area of solid minerals development. Nigeria is open to working with the Turkish government to strengthen governance structures, improve technical capacity, and advance sustainable mining development in our country.”

The minister noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has fully endorsed efforts to deepen cooperation with Türkiye in mining and energy. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given full backing to efforts aimed at strengthening bilateral relations with Türkiye in the mining and energy sectors.”

Alake also highlighted ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s mining sector. “We have significantly improved the ease of doing business and strengthened institutional support for investors. Investors can now repatriate profits after due process,” he said, adding that “the reforms have already triggered increased inflows of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the sector.”

On enforcement, he stated: “Over 300 illegal mining operators, including foreign nationals, have been arrested, while more than 150 prosecutions are currently ongoing. In addition, over 100 illegal mining sites have been recovered and returned to legitimate licence owners.”

Responding, Türkiye’s Minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, described the partnership as strategic. “We are ready to invest in Nigeria because of the remarkable initiatives your government has put in place. We look forward to cooperation, support, and guidance that will enable both countries to achieve meaningful results.”

He added that “global energy security now demands stronger international cooperation and connectivity,” while also noting Türkiye’s interest in expanding investments into Nigeria’s mining, energy, and hydrocarbon sectors.

“Nigeria is a major player in the hydrocarbon industry. We would appreciate it if you convey to your President our desire to renew energy cooperation and contracts with Nigeria,” he said.

Alake also stressed that global stability is essential for energy security, stating: “Without reducing conflicts around the world, economic imperatives and global energy security efforts will continue to face significant challenges.”

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