Nigeria, Turkey Seal Mining Partnership to Boost Investment and Solid Minerals Development
Nigeria has taken another step toward attracting foreign investment into its mining industry after signing a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Turkey to deepen cooperation in the solid minerals sector. The agreement, signed during the Istanbul Natural Resources Summit (INRES) in Istanbul, is expected to open new opportunities for investment, technology transfer, and sustainable mining development between both countries.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the partnership will enable Nigeria to benefit from Turkey’s expertise in mining exploration, digital licensing systems, technical training, and capacity development. He noted that the administration of Bola Tinubu remains committed to strengthening economic ties with Turkey, particularly in the mining and energy sectors, to accelerate growth and unlock the country’s vast mineral potential.
Alake highlighted the reforms implemented in Nigeria’s solid minerals industry over the past three years, stating that they have significantly improved the investment climate and ease of doing business. According to him, investors now enjoy stronger institutional support, clearer regulations, and the ability to repatriate profits after fulfilling legal requirements. These measures, he said, have increased investor confidence and attracted greater foreign direct investment into the sector.
The minister also pointed to the federal government’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal mining activities across the country. He revealed that more than 300 illegal miners, including foreign nationals, have been arrested, while over 150 cases are currently being prosecuted. In addition, authorities have recovered more than 100 illegally occupied mining sites and returned them to legitimate licence holders, a move aimed at restoring confidence among genuine investors and strengthening lawful mining operations.
On his part, Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, described the agreement as a timely and strategic partnership amid growing global concerns over energy security. He praised Nigeria’s mining sector reforms and disclosed that several Turkish companies are eager to invest not only in mining but also in energy and hydrocarbon projects. Bayraktar further identified Nigeria as a key gateway to African markets, expressing Turkey’s desire to expand economic and energy cooperation with Africa’s largest economy through long-term partnerships and renewed energy agreements.
source: The Cable