Nigeria, Uzbekistan Forge Mining Partnership as Rep. Olumide Osoba Joins Key Talks in Tashkent
In a significant move to boost Nigeria’s mining sector, Hon. Olumide Osoba, member representing Abeokuta North, Obafemi-Owode and Odeda Federal Constituency, participated in high-level discussions between Nigerian parliamentary delegates and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Mining and Geology, Yusupov Ural Sadullayevich.
The strategic meeting, held during the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, saw Uzbekistan sharing its expertise in mineral processing and value chain development. The Central Asian nation, known for its successful transition from raw mineral exports to high-value finished products, offered insights that could revolutionize Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu led the Nigerian delegation which included:
– Senator Ireti Kingibe
– Hon. Mark Esset
– Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamorudeen Ogunlana
Hon. Osoba’s participation underscores the growing importance of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector as the nation seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil. The lawmaker, known for his advocacy on economic diversification, emphasized the potential benefits for his constituency and Nigeria at large.
Key outcomes of the meeting include:
1. Agreement to establish technical exchange programs
2. Plans for bilateral trade missions
3. Knowledge sharing in mineral processing technologies
4. Exploration of joint investment opportunities
This collaboration comes as the Nigerian government intensifies efforts to develop its mining sector, with recent reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and creating jobs.
