By Aideloje Ojo
Minna
The Government of Niger state has entered into partnership with the St. Petersburg Mining University in Russia to provide technical assistance focused on improving operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and safety management in mining activitiesin the state
The state Commissioners for Trade and Investment, Honourable Aminu Suleman Takuma stated this in a statement issued in Minna on Tuesday.
He explained that the partnership deal was entered during the state Governor Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago strategic visit to St. Petersburg Mining University in Russia in a bid to enhance multi million naira mining sector in the state.
He said that the governor’s visit was aimed at exploring collaboration opportunities that would boost the state’s natural resources development and improve technical capacity in the mining industry.
According to him, “during the visit, Governor Mohammed Umaru held high-level discussions with university officials on potential partnerships, in the areas of education, research, and technical support”.
This, he explained, aligned with the state long-term vision of leveraging education and international partnerships to promote sustainable development and economic resilience.
“He emphasized the importance of equipping Niger State’s workforce with modern skills in mining-related disciplines and solicited the university’s support in training students and professionals, joint research and development initiatives to enhance mineral exploration and improve mining techniques in the state”, the commissionersaid.
He said that the Governor has also revealed plans to send an Executive Bill titled “Responsible Mining” to the Niger State House of Assembly intended to regulate mining operations within the state, which he said would ensure sustainable practices, and improve oversight.
The Governor, according to the statement, is of the conviction that this collaborative effort will significantly contribute to job creation, boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and improve the overall economic outlook of Niger State.
