Nigeria Partners with Australia, Commonwealth to Train Mining Experts
***Alake launches landmark technical training programme at Murdoch University
In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector, the Federal Government has launched an intensive technical training programme for mining professionals in partnership with Australia and the Commonwealth Government.
The initiative, officially flagged off by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, at Murdoch University in Western Australia, marks the beginning of a bilateral collaboration aimed at closing Nigeria’s technical skills gap in solid mineral exploration and development.
Backed by the Australian Government and the Australian High Commission in Nigeria, the two-week pilot programme will train eleven Nigerian professionals in key areas such as extractive metallurgy, sustainable geochemistry, and mineral science research. The programme also includes field excursions and engagements with leading experts in mining operations, sustainability, and investment.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Alake described the programme as the fulfillment of a vision conceived during the 2023 Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, where he signed a bilateral agreement with the Government of Western Australia and Murdoch University.
“This training is a major leap forward in our commitment to developing a technically proficient workforce,” he said. “I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, and to the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Leilani Bin-Juda, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this to fruition.”
Alake thanked Murdoch University’s leadership for their openness and commitment to strengthening global cooperation in the mining sector. He encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity and return to Nigeria ready to influence policy and practice in the extractive industry.
“Let this be the beginning of a transformation—not just for you, but for millions of Nigerians who will benefit from a more efficient and transparent mining sector,” he charged the delegates.
Welcoming the Nigerian team, Murdoch University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Deeks, said the programme aligns with the university’s vision of delivering impactful, ethical, and globally inclusive education.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of international partnerships in solving global challenges. The Commonwealth Government’s support underscores the importance of shared knowledge and development,” Professor Deeks added.
Western Australia’s Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Hon. David Michael, also received the Nigerian delegation and pledged his government’s continued support. He noted that the Australian Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety will host the participants during their stay, providing hands-on exposure to best practices in the sector.
The training programme forms part of Nigeria’s broader effort to revitalize the solid minerals sector and promote sustainable development through strategic global partnerships.
