The Federal Government and the United States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen the development of Nigeria's solid minerals sector.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and the US Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher Landau.

Alake described the agreement as a framework for cooperation in geological data, mineral exploration and development, processing, infrastructure and technical capacity.

He said both countries are committed to developing secure and resilient critical-mineral supply chains through responsible investment.

The Minister added that Nigeria's ambition is to move beyond exporting raw materials by expanding local processing, creating jobs, developing skills and opening opportunities for Nigerian businesses.