In a significant step towards enhancing the Mining Sector, the Gemological Institute of Nigeria (GIN) and the University of Abuja have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the mining sector in Nigeria.
The agreement aims to leverage the combined expertise and resources of both institutions to foster innovation, research, and skill development in the fields of geology, gemology, and mining.
The partnership endeavours to establish a formal collaboration between GIN and the Department of Gemology and Mining at University of Abuja by integrating their strengths, the two institutions aspire to create a unified platform for geoscience education, gemology, and mining research in Nigeria.
This initiative underscores a broader vision to diversify Nigeria’s economy and position the country as a frontrunner in the mining sector.
According to the terms of the MoU, GIN, a pioneering gemology institution in Nigeria, will collaborate closely with University of Abuja’s Geology and Mining Department to enrich the academic curriculum with gemology and jewellery-making aspects. This integration will not only enhance the academic programs but also foster entrepreneurship in the jewellery sector.
The President of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria (GIN) and the 1st Deputy President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, signed the MoU on behalf of GIN while the the Vice-Chancellor of UofA, Prof. Abdurasheed Na’Allah signed on behalf of the university.
Prof. Adesugba emphasized Nigeria’s rich diversity of gemstones and minerals and the untapped potential of these resources.
“The rationale behind the partnership is to create a centralized institution dedicated to geology, gemology, and jewellery making, aiming to serve as a hub for knowledge, research, and skill development in the mining sector and the partnership’s objectives include establishing Nigeria’s leading School of Mines, developing a robust mines business line in the private sector, and strengthening the solid minerals sector through academic and practical training.” He stated.
According to him, the initiative aims to boost Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda by promoting sustainable mining practices and tapping into the global market for Indigenous gemstones and jewellery designs.
“Both GIN and University of Abuja are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality assurance and confidentiality throughout the partnership. Any disputes arising from the agreement will be resolved through mutual negotiation, with arbitration as a final recourse” He added
On his part, the Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Abdurasheed Na’Allah expressed appreciation for selecting the Institution as the first Nigerian university in the field of gemology, pledging full support for the Centre.
“With a duration of five years, the MoU sets the stage for a transformative collaboration between GIN and University of Abuja , with the potential to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in Nigeria’s mining sector” He added
Also present to grace the occasion of the signing of the MoU were the ACCI 2nd Deputy President, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong; the ACCI Director General, Mr Agabaidu Chukwuemeka Jideani; the Director of ACCI BEST Centre, Dr. Tinuke Temitope; ACCI General Counsel, Hajia Hauwa Kaka Usman, and other distinguished staff from both ACCI, the Gemology Centre and the UofA.
