Minister Alleges Threats for Revoking 1,263 Mining Licences

Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has reported receiving threats from certain individuals after revoking 1,263 mining licenses from operators who did not pay their annual service fees.

At a press conference on Friday in Abuja, ahead of the 10th Nigeria Mining Week themed “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance,” Alake stated that some affected parties had threatened international arbitration and funded negative media campaigns opposing the ministry’s reforms.

However, he emphasized that the threats would not dissuade him from implementing essential reforms to clean up the sector. He noted that this decision is vital for ensuring the country receives fair economic returns from its mineral resources.

“Some individuals have held licenses since the era of former President Olusegun Obasanjo but have not utilized them,” he stated

Alake reports that Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has experienced substantial growth, with its contribution to the national GDP increasing from under 0.5 percent ten years ago to approximately 4.65 percent today. Further expansion is anticipated in the coming years.

He stated that this progress demonstrated a more dynamic mining industry, characterized by rising investments and tangible benefits for local communities.

This effectively translates to an increase in operational mines, a rise in company investments, and more communities being affected by mining activities.

“The concepts of robust data, increased investment, and enhanced beneficiation that once seemed distant are now realities influencing the sector,” he stated.

The minister stated that this year’s mining week aligns with Nigeria’s strategy to maximize revenue by adding value to minerals and seizing opportunities in the global energy transition.

He emphasized that the yearly event had chronicled the industry’s transformation from an informal system to one characterized by structure, innovation, and private-sector involvement.

Alake stated that, as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministry has carried out reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing investment risks, and unlocking value throughout the mineral development chain.

He stated that the government’s objective was to establish Nigeria as a globally competitive mining hub by improving regulations, adopting sustainable practices, and optimizing the use of its extensive mineral resources.

He stated that the 10th Nigeria Mining Week will host around 100 exhibitors displaying cutting-edge mining technologies and is expected to draw over 3,500 delegates from both within and outside of Nigeria.

He pointed out that international mining delegations from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East would be present, highlighting the increasing global interest in Nigeria’s mineral potential.

He stated, “By working collaboratively, fostering innovation, and maintaining unwavering commitment, we will reposition Nigeria as a significant player in the global mining industry.”

In his speech, Mr. Dele Ayankale, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), stated that the 10th edition of this event marks a decade filled with impact, innovation, and collaboration in the solid minerals sector.

He portrayed the forum as an essential venue for discussion and reform, connecting policymakers, investors, and industry operators to promote advancement in the sector.

He stated that Nigeria has made significant advancements in exploration, the formalization of artisanal mining, investment influxes, and the application of modern technologies to enhance sustainability.

He stated, “Minerals like gold, limestone, barite, lithium, and bitumen have attracted renewed interest. Through improved collaboration efforts, we are witnessing real contributions to job creation, community development initiatives and the diversification of the economy.”

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