**Nigeria Secures $1.3 Billion Boost for Mining Sector** In a major development for Nigeria's economy, the Federal Government and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) have signed a historic $1.3 billion deal to fund three projects in the country's mining sector. This landmark foreign direct investment (FDI) is set to transform the industry and increase its contribution to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The deal, which was signed in Abuja, involves the construction of a $1.3 billion alumina refinery that will generate 1 million tonnes of bauxite ore per annum. The project is expected to create jobs and wealth for Nigerians, as well as attract more foreign investment to the sector. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described the deal as a "game-changer" for the mining sector. He praised the AFC and the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) for their commitment to executing the priorities of the Federal Government. The minister highlighted the significant gains made by the ministry's reform programme, which has secured the investment environment and modernised the regulatory framework. The SMDF Executive Secretary, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, expressed delight at the historic achievement. She noted that the deal represents the agency's largest funding project since its inception and hailed the partnership as a "phenomenal milestone" that will boost the value addition policy of the ministry. The refinery is designed to operate for approximately 20 years at 95% utilisation, with a projected alumina output of 19 million tonnes over the project's horizon. This deal is a testament to the Federal Government's resolve to accelerate the development of the mining sector and increase its contribution to the nation's GDP. As Nigeria continues to diversify its economy, this deal offers a glimmer of hope for the country's mining sector. With the AFC and SMDF partnering to fund the project, Nigerians can expect to see more investments in the sector, creating jobs and wealth for generations to come.