GIN Signs MOU With University Of Abuja

In a significant step towards enhancing the mining sector, the Gemological Institute of Nigeria, GIN, and the University of Abuja (UofA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, to strengthen the mining sector.

The agreement aims to leverage the combined expertise and resources of both institutions to foster innovation, research, and skills development in the fields of geology, gemology, and mining.

The partnership will also establish a formal collaboration between GIN and the Department of Gemology and Mining at University of Abuja by integrating their strengths while 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 Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Prof. Abdurasheed Na’Allah signed on behalf of the Institution.

Prof. Adesugba emphasized Nigeria’s rich endowment with gemstones and minerals as well as the untapped potential of the 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, hence 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 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.

PR/Mathew Ayoola