Shehu Sani Demands Scrutiny Of Nigeria-US Mineral Deal

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has called for parliamentary scrutiny of a recently signed mineral exploration deal between Nigeria and the United States. The agreement, reportedly signed in New York, aims to foster cooperation in areas such as exploration, development, processing, infrastructure, and technical capacity.

Sani expressed concern over the lack of public disclosure of the deal's details earlier, stating that lawmakers should have been allowed to examine its implications for Nigeria's national interests and communities hosting valuable mineral resources. He warned against using the deal solely to replace Chinese miners or appease foreign interests.

Sani emphasized the importance of considering security concerns in the agreement, given the security challenges faced by communities where minerals are located. He highlighted the presence of banditry in areas hosting deposits of lithium, gold, rare earth minerals, and uranium, making security an essential factor in any mineral agreement. The senator warned that agreements involving a major power could have long-term implications for Nigeria, noting that once a deal is signed with a superpower, it cannot be easily undone.