– Approves 867 licenses in Q1 2025
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigerian Government has announced that it generated over N6.95 billion in mining fees and registered 118 new private mineral buying centers in the first quarter of 2025, in what has been described as a major leap toward reforming Nigeria’s mining sector and attracting new investments.
Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, who made the disclosure in a statement, said the achievements reflect the government’s aggressive push to reposition the sector and raise its global competitiveness.
Alake revealed that the Mining Cadastral Office, MCO, processed 955 applications for mineral title grants, approving a total of 867 licenses during the quarter.
According to him, these included 512 exploration licenses, 295 small-scale mining leases, 60 quarry leases, and 5 mining leases.
“These achievements are a direct reflection of our dedicated efforts to raise awareness and attract investors to our vibrant mining industry.
“The MCO has been particularly active, processing 955 applications, including 651 for exploration, 270 for small-scale mining, 49 for quarrying, and 24 for reconnaissance permits,” the minister noted.
In a bid to further transform the sector, Alake announced that the government is finalizing the establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation—a special-purpose vehicle designed to bring Nigeria into the global mining arena.
“This structure will serve as a special-purpose vehicle to elevate Nigeria into the global mining arena. Nigerians will have the chance to invest through a public offering,” he added.
On international collaborations, the Minister highlighted a number of strategic partnerships.
“The French government has committed to equipping the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency’s laboratory and training young Nigerian geologists under a bilateral agreement secured by President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron.
“The French government’s support will modernize our laboratories and enhance human capital through advanced geological training,” Alake stated.
He also disclosed that the Government of Australia had approved a regular training program for Nigerian mining professionals, with the first cohort set to depart next month.
“We are also receiving investments from British and Saudi Arabian entities across the mineral value chain. And just days ago, we signed an MoU with South Africa to enhance our geological capacity.”
Alake further emphasized the success of the government’s value addition policy, which he said has curtailed the indiscriminate export of raw minerals and bolstered local beneficiation.
“Our advocacy for value addition has made Nigeria a leader in the African mining landscape. As pioneer chair of the African Minerals Strategy Group, our goal is to draw more investments to Africa and Nigeria,” he declared.
The minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s resolve to build a resilient, transparent, and globally competitive mining industry that will serve as a major pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification drive.
