Arewa Forum Calls for Transparency on Nigeria’s $700bn US Mineral Deal

The Call for Transparency

On Saturday, the National Publicity Secretary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Professor Tukur Mohammed‑Baba, appeared on Arise Television to demand that the federal government explain the details of a $700 billion critical minerals deal signed with the United States. Following the signing of the pact at Nigeria House in New York on 23 September 2026, during the 81st United Nations General Assembly, the forum submitted its demand.

Mohammed‑Baba argued that, given the nation's current economic struggles, the public is entitled to understand the conditions, advantages, and consequences of the deal. He warned that a deal of this magnitude should not be shrouded in secrecy and urged the Tinubu administration to make the full details public to avoid suspicion and mistrust.

The ACF declared its intention to persist in advocating for openness and responsibility in the administration of the state.

Background

The critical minerals framework was signed between Nigeria and the United States on 23 September 2026. The agreement, worth $700 billion, was announced at the Nigeria House in New York during the 81st UN General Assembly. While the sources do not detail the specific minerals or the exact terms of the deal, the forum’s spokesperson highlighted the importance of public disclosure.

The Arewa Consultative Forum is a political and cultural body representing the interests of the northern region of Nigeria. Its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Mohammed‑Baba, has been active in calling for greater transparency in government dealings.

Why it Matters

The size of the agreement—$700 billion—makes it one of the largest foreign investment deals in Nigeria’s recent history. The forum’s demand for transparency is rooted in concerns that the public may not be fully informed about how the deal will affect national revenue, employment, and the environment. The call comes at a time when Nigerians are experiencing economic challenges, and the public’s trust in the government’s handling of such a significant agreement is crucial.

If the government fails to disclose the terms, it could lead to increased suspicion and mistrust among citizens, potentially undermining confidence in the Tinubu administration’s economic policies.

What Happens Next

According to the sources, the Arewa Consultative Forum will continue to advocate for transparency and accountability. No specific next steps or dates for a public release of the agreement’s details have been announced by the government or the forum.

The forum’s statement was made during an interview on Arise Television on Saturday, and no further official response from the federal government has been reported in the provided sources.