FRANCE-NIGERIA MINING PACT

The pact is both an opportunity and a risk, argues ABIODUN J. OLUWADARE

The recent signing of a pact between France and Nigeria to collaborate on mining exploration and businesses presents a potential turning point in bilateral relations. It is an opportunity for Nigeria to leverage its vast untapped mineral wealth to diversify its economy while strengthening diplomatic ties with one of Europe’s leading economies. However, the broader geopolitical landscape, including recent developments in neighbouring West African countries, demands a closer and more critical examination of this partnership.

 Nigeria’s reliance on crude oil has long been identified as a bottleneck to economic growth and stability. The mining sector, with its rich deposits of gold, columbite, tin, limestone, and other minerals, holds significant promise for diversification. A well-managed mining sector can lead to increased revenue, industrialization, job creation, and foreign investment. France, a global leader in technology and industrial processes, is an ideal partner to help Nigeria unlock this potential.

The pact represents a chance for Nigeria to attract technical expertise, advanced equipment, and investment from France to build a modern and competitive mining industry. On the surface, this partnership aligns with Nigeria’s aspirations for economic transformation. However, historical and contemporary issues complicate the narrative.

Recent events in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali provide an exemplary backdrop for Nigeria. In these countries, military governments that came to power through coups have accused France of neocolonial practices, economic exploitation, and interference in domestic affairs. Allegations of resource exploitation under the guise of partnerships and development aid have marred France’s presence in these nations.

For Nigeria, these grievances should serve as a warning. While Nigeria remains committed to democracy and constitutional governance, its reaction to the military takeover in Niger Republic—where it aligned with ECOWAS to push for a return to civilian rule—shows the complexity of managing relationships in the West African sub-region. Furthermore, France’s alleged involvement in security challenges, including arms supplies to groups like Boko Haram, adds another layer of mistrust that cannot be ignored.

France’s technological sophistication is both a strength and a potential threat in this partnership. Advanced tools for monitoring and exploration could aid Nigeria in curbing illegal mining activities and maximizing resource extraction. However, the same technological edge could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty if used for surveillance or other ulterior motives.

Nigeria’s experience in the Niger Delta, where multinational oil companies were accused of environmental degradation, economic exploitation, and complicity in corruption, highlights the need for vigilance. The potential for a repeat of such scenarios in the mining sector is real, especially in a context where governance structures and regulatory oversight remain weak.

Moreover, the issue of corruption among military and paramilitary personnel, who are often tasked with safeguarding national assets, poses a significant challenge. In the past, corrupt practices have allowed illegal mining to flourish, robbing Nigeria of valuable revenue and fueling insecurity. France’s involvement in this sector must be accompanied by stringent accountability measures to prevent similar outcomes.

Given these complexities, Nigeria must tread cautiously in its dealings with France. Several strategic measures are crucial to ensuring that this partnership yields mutual benefits without compromising national sovereignty or security.

There is therefore the need to strengthen regulatory frameworks of this pact. Nigeria must establish and enforce clear regulations that prioritize transparency, fairness, and environmental sustainability. Lessons from the Niger Delta should guide the creation of a robust legal framework that minimizes exploitation and maximizes local benefits.

Nigeria cannot fold its arms only to continue to rely on other countries for its mining business, it needs to build indigenous capacity. Relying solely on foreign expertise is risky. Nigeria should invest in developing its domestic capacity for mineral exploration, processing, and management. This includes training local talent, fostering research and development, and equipping local industries with the tools needed to compete globally.

The unfortunate development in the Niger Delta region where natural environment has been degraded to the detriment of the people should not be allowed in the mining business. Ensuring community involvement must be preponderant to allow benefits for the people. As seen in the Niger Delta, the exclusion of local communities from decision-making processes often leads to unrest and sabotage. Nigeria must ensure that host communities are not only consulted but also see tangible benefits from mining activities. This includes job creation, infrastructure development, and revenue-sharing mechanisms.

The lack of employment of modern technology in monitoring activities of oil explorers and oil thieves has rendered accountability non-existence in the Niger Delta Region. Advanced technology should be used to monitor and regulate mining activities effectively. However, these tools must be deployed by independent Nigerian institutions to prevent manipulation by external actors. Regular audits and public reporting can also enhance accountability.

Given the allegations of France’s involvement in arms proliferation and other nefarious activities, Nigeria must scrutinize the security implications of this partnership. Strengthening border security, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency collaboration will be crucial in countering illegal mining and smuggling activities.

No discussion of Nigeria’s resource management challenges is complete without addressing corruption. From the illegal bunkering of oil in the Niger Delta to the smuggling of gold and other minerals across borders, corruption has consistently undermined Nigeria’s economic potential. Combating this scourge requires a multi-faceted approach, including strengthening anti-corruption agencies, improving governance, and fostering a culture of accountability.

Where Does Nigeria Stand?

The France-Nigeria mining pact is both an opportunity and a risk. On the one hand, it could catalyze Nigeria’s economic diversification and strengthen its global partnerships. On the other hand, it could repeat the patterns of exploitation and marginalization seen in other resource-rich countries.

To navigate this delicate balance, Nigeria must approach the agreement with a clear strategy rooted in the lessons of history and the realities of the present. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and local empowerment, Nigeria can turn this partnership into a model of equitable development.

Ultimately, the success of this pact will depend not only on France’s intentions but also on Nigeria’s ability to assert its sovereignty, protect its interests, and ensure that its resources benefit its people. In a world where geopolitics and economics are increasingly intertwined, Nigeria must remain vigilant, proactive, and persistent in charting its course.

· Col Oluwadare (rtd) is Assoc Prof, Dept of Political Science, Nigerian Defence Academy