In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector, the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government has launched an intensive technical training programme for mining professionals in partnership with the Australian Government.
The initiative is a key outcome of the Nigeria–Australia collaboration with the support of the Commonwealth Government, aimed at addressing skill gaps in the mining sector and deepening bilateral ties between the two countries
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, launched the capacity enhancement programme for the first batch of Nigerian mining professionals at Murdoch University, Australia.
Backed by the Australian Government and the Australian High Commission in Nigeria, the two-week pilot programme will train 11 Nigerian professionals in key areas such as extractive metallurgy, sustainable geochemistry, and mineral science research.
The programme also includes field excursions and engagements with leading experts in mining operations, sustainability, and investment.
Alake was quoted in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, yesterday in Abuja as having described the programme as the fulfilment of a vision conceived during the 2023 Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, where he signed a bilateral agreement with the Government of Western Australia and Murdoch University.
“This training is a major leap forward in our commitment to developing a technically proficient workforce,” he said. “I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and to the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Leilani Bin-Juda, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this to fruition.”
The Minister commended the leadership of Murdoch University for their openness and commitment to strengthening global cooperation in the mining sector.
He then encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity and return to Nigeria, ready to influence policy and practice in the extractive industry.
Western Australia’s Minister for Mines and Petroleum, David Michael, also received the Nigerian delegation and pledged his government’s continued support. He noted that the Australian Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety will host the participants during their stay, providing hands-on exposure to best practices in the sector.
Welcoming the Nigerian team, Murdoch University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Deeks, said the programme aligns with the institution’s vision of delivering impactful, ethical, and globally inclusive education.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
