The federal government has started a training programme for the first group of Nigerian mining professionals at Murdoch University in Australia.
Segun Tomori, spokesperson for the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, stated that the programme is a significant outcome of the partnership between Nigeria and Australia, with support from the Commonwealth government.
Tomori said the programme aims to address skill gaps in the mining sector and strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and Australia.
“The initiative stems from a bilateral agreement signed by Alake during the 2023 Africa Down Under (ADU) Conference in Perth, Australia,” he said.
“The agreement, entered with the Government of Western Australia through the Australian Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, and Murdoch University, seeks to facilitate technical training for Nigerian mining professionals.”
According to the statement, the collaboration, also supported by the Australian High Commission in Nigeria, has led to the commencement of a two-week pilot training programme involving 11 Nigerian participants at Murdoch University.
“The training covers a wide range of subjects, including extractive metallurgy, sustainable geochemistry, and mineral science research,” the statement reads.
“Participants will also embark on field trips and engage directly with industry experts to explore mining trends, investment opportunities, and sustainability challenges.”
Speaking at the launch, Alake said the programme represents the fruition of a vision conceived less than two years ago.
“I must not fail to acknowledge the encouragement and support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the efforts of the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Leilani Bin-Juda, who has been a pillar of support throughout this process, constantly engaging, travelling back and forth and ensuring this vision comes to life,” he said.
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