Tackling Illegal Mining: Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Ministry Takes Bold Measures

The Ministry of Solid Minerals has issued a formal warning to illegal miners, urging them to cease their unauthorized activities or face legal repercussions. The government has taken decisive action by revoking 1,633 licenses of defaulters, demonstrating its dedication to cleaning up the minerals sector and positioning it for global competitiveness. Dr. Oladele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasized the unjust nature of corporate entities profiting from mining without fulfilling their obligations to the government, such as the payment of annual service fees as stipulated in the NMMA Act of 2007. In accordance with the law, the Ministry initiated the process of revoking 2,213 titles, encompassing exploration titles, small-scale mining licenses, quarry licenses, and mining leases. Of the title holders, only 580 responded by settling their debts, leading to the recommendation for the revocation of 1,633 mineral titles. The Minister, empowered by his statutory authority, approved the revocation and warned the previous holders to vacate the relevant cadaster immediately. Security agencies will collaborate with the Mines Inspectorate to apprehend any defaulters found within the revoked areas. Dr. Alake highlighted the risk of non-compliance in paying royalties and taxes, underscoring the minimal nature of the required payments compared to companies’ revenue expectations. He also acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Press and the public in revitalizing the minerals sector. Furthermore, the Minister elucidated the governance system outlined in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, emphasizing the need for regulations, entry and exit procedures, government obligations, and penalties for non-compliance. Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, called for concerted efforts to achieve Nigeria’s aspirations, urging the media to disseminate the importance of mining, particularly in Nigerian languages, and highlighting it as the next economic frontier for Nigeria.