Murdoch University has welcomed a delegation of Nigerian public officials, led by the Minister for Solid Minerals, Dr Henry Dele Alake, for a two-week intensive program centred on knowledge exchange and capacity building in the mining sector.
The visit commenced with a traditional Smoking Ceremony performed by Alton Walley, marking the delegation’s arrival and symbolising a respectful welcome to Country. Following the ceremony, delegates met with senior University leadership to kick off the program, which runs until June 15.
Supported by the Commonwealth Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, the program is one of two scheduled before 2026. It features expert-led sessions on extractive metallurgy in Western Australia, sustainable geochemistry, and cutting-edge mineral science research. Delegates will also undertake field trips and interact directly with industry leaders to explore investment prospects, emerging trends, and sustainability challenges in mining.
The program will culminate in an Industry Panel Discussion, offering a platform to address Nigeria’s core mining sector issues and develop practical solutions.
Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks highlighted the broader value of the initiative:
“The support of the Commonwealth Government speaks to the importance of our two nations coming together to share knowledge for the mutual benefit of our societies.”
Professor Deeks also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to international cooperation in the resource sector, adding that the visit aligns with Murdoch’s broader mission to promote ethical, sustainable, and inclusive partnerships through research and education.
Murdoch University has a long-standing record of engagement with Africa at government, industry, and community levels—particularly through the African Australian Research Forum and the Murdoch Third Commission: Inclusive Transitions on the Continent of Africa. These initiatives aim to strengthen ties and foster meaningful, reciprocal partnerships across continents.
