Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State is leveraging education diplomacy on the global stage with a strategic visit to St. Petersburg, Russia, where he is courting partnerships to equip the state’s workforce with cutting-edge mining skills.
Far beyond a routine investment mission, Bago’s trip centers on collaboration with the prestigious St. Petersburg Mining University, known for its global leadership in mineral sciences and environmental engineering.
The goal: to drive knowledge transfer, research innovation, and technical training that will modernize Niger’s mining operations and stimulate economic growth.
Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Aminu Suleiman Takuma, described the visit as “a bold step toward building a technically empowered generation that can sustainably manage the state’s vast mineral resources.”
He revealed that the Governor will engage the university’s top academic and research leaders on tailored training programs for students and professionals in Niger State. The initiative will also explore dual-degree programs, faculty exchanges, and mining research hubs to be sited in the state.
Takuma also announced plans for an Executive Bill titled “Responsible Mining”, which Governor Bago intends to present to the State Assembly.
The proposed legislation will institutionalize ethical mining practices, environmental safeguards, and community-based accountability structures.
Experts believe that by anchoring economic reform on education and international partnerships, Niger State is setting a new precedent for subnational development in Nigeria.
“This is not just about digging minerals,” Takuma said. “It’s about digging for knowledge that can build a better economy.”
(National Update)
