Nigeria is set to strengthen its mining sector through strategic collaboration with Canada, aiming to drive reforms, enhance productivity, and attract foreign direct investment. The announcement was made in a statement from Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.
During a meeting with the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, Alake highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to leverage Canada’s advanced mining technology and global expertise. He emphasized that bilateral cooperation will focus on de-risking the mining environment, formalizing artisanal mining, promoting technology transfer, and building capacity for mining professionals.
The Minister also outlined investment incentives, including tax waivers on imported mining equipment, full repatriation of profits, and other fiscal measures to create an investor-friendly climate. He praised Canada’s historic support during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election and reaffirmed commitment to deepening the partnership, particularly in mining and mineral development.
Ambassador Salvaggio recognized Nigeria as Canada’s second-largest trading partner in Africa and commended initiatives like the Nigeria Solid Minerals Company (NSMC) for boosting investor confidence. He highlighted plans for technical exchange programmes and capacity building for Nigerian mining professionals, including replicating the University of Calgary’s 2025 training programme.
Both countries agreed to establish a joint working group to identify priority cooperation areas, develop actionable timelines, and ensure tangible outcomes. The renewed engagement underscores President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to attracting FDI, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities for Nigeria’s youth
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