By Isaac Atunlute
Following a perennial shortage of skilled workers in its mining sector, Nigeria has now partnered with an Australian university to train its mining professionals and revive its domestic industry.
With the country’s reserves of gold, lithium, iron, and essential minerals, Nigeria’s mining sector was tapped to be the next mainstay after oil.
But a shortfall in professionals proficient in exploration and extraction crimped the dreams of advancing to sustainable means of mining.
Now, an international partnership—between Australia’s Murdoch University and Nigeria’s Ministry of Solid Minerals Development—aims to bridge this critical talent gap while strengthening bilateral ties.
The first cohort, comprising mining regulators, geologists, and engineers, will receive certification in advanced mining techniques, safety protocols, and sustainable practices, with the possibility of further degrees and certifications in later stages.
The training will cover areas such as mine security and environmental control, including community engagement.
This initiative is the outcome of a 2023 pact between both countries, with the government of Australia promising to provide high-impact technical training, through its Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, for Nigerian mining professionals.
Closing the skill gap.
Less than 30% of Nigeria’s mines have qualified technical personnel, according to the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Worse yet, most mines still employ artisan mining methods. The results of these challenges have been declining mining output and environmental degradation.
Can the new bilateral partnership reverse these downturns?
Already, preparation classes and appraisals in liaison with Nigerian universities and mining schools are ongoing, with training expected to commence in the coming months.
According to the Nigerian government, trainees will engage in Nigeria’s regulatory affairs, head policy advisory committees, and spearhead exploration initiatives upon their return.
What’s next?
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has expressed plans for the establishment of exchange programmes and Nigeria-based satellite centres to expand access to experts in remote mining communities, who may not be able to travel abroad.
Scholarships and industrial partnerships for long-term sustainability are also being considered.
Although the partnership is only in its early stage, mining stakeholders are hopeful that it will herald the comeback of Nigeria’s once glorious mining industry.
Nigeria is addressing a shortage of skilled workers in its mining sector by partnering with Australia's Murdoch University to train its mining professionals. This collaboration aims to revive Nigeria's mining industry, with a focus on gold, lithium, iron, and essential minerals after oil. A critical talent gap in exploration and extraction skills previously hindered sustainable development. The partnership includes training in advanced mining techniques, safety protocols, and sustainable practices, and is part of a 2023 agreement with the Australian government to provide high-impact technical training.
Currently, less than 30% of Nigeria’s mines have qualified technical personnel, leading to decreased output and environmental harm. The training program's first cohort, featuring mining regulators, geologists, and engineers, aims for improvements and sustainability in mining. Preparation classes are underway, with training starting soon, equipping participants to impact regulatory affairs and policy-making upon returning.
Additionally, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development plans to establish exchange programs and satellite centers for experts in remote areas, along with scholarships and industrial partnerships for sustainability. Though in its early stage, this initiative is anticipated to rejuvenate Nigeria's mining industry.
