In a landmark move to revitalise Nigeria’s mining sector, the first set of Nigerian mining professionals has begun a capacity-building programme at Murdoch University in Australia, an initiative backed by the Australian and Commonwealth governments.
The programme, launched by Nigeria’s minister of solid minerals development, Dr. Dele Alake, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-Australia relations.
It stems from a bilateral agreement forged at the 2023 Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, Australia, aimed at closing skill gaps and fostering cross-continental cooperation in Nigeria’s extractives industry.
According to a statement from the minister’s media aide, Segun Tomori, the training, currently in its pilot phase, encompasses hands-on field trips, academic modules in extractive metallurgy, sustainable geochemistry, and mineral research, and real-time engagement with Australian industry leaders.
Dr. Alake praised the joint effort, noting it was a vision conceived less than two years ago and brought to life through support from President Bola Tinubu and the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Leilani Bin-Juda.
“This programme isn’t just about upskilling individuals,” Dr. Alake said at the launch event, “it’s about reshaping Nigeria’s entire minerals sector to be more inclusive, productive, and globally competitive.”
The Minister also urged the participants to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and to leverage the training to enhance the country’s technical capabilities and contribute to evidence-based policy design and implementation.
“Let this moment mark the beginning of a transformative journey—not just for those attending this course, but for the millions of Nigerians who stand to benefit from a better-governed, more inclusive, and more productive minerals sector,” he added.
Murdoch University’s vice chancellor, Professor Andrew Deeks, welcomed the delegation and emphasised the value of international partnerships in driving sustainable development. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to education that has a real-world impact,” he said. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for a more connected and resourceful future.”
The two-week pilot is expected to pave the way for broader cooperation between the two nations, with the potential for ongoing academic and technical exchanges.
