Nigeria has revoked 1,263 mineral licenses due to defaults in the payment of annual service fees, in a move aimed at enforcing compliance and improving efficiency in the country’s mining sector.
The revoked licenses cover exploration, quarrying, small-scale and large-scale mining operations, reflecting a broader push by the government to strengthen oversight in the solid minerals industry.
The revoked titles include 584 exploration licenses, 65 mining leases, 144 quarry licenses and 470 small-scale mining leases.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake said the action followed recommendations from the Mining Cadastre Office and is intended to ensure that only serious and committed investors operate in the sector.
Alake noted that enforcing the rules will discourage speculators and inactive operators, while creating room for credible investors to contribute to the responsible development of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
He said the move is also expected to improve productivity, create jobs and attract capital needed to drive economic growth.
With this action, the total number of mineral titles withdrawn under the current administration has reached 3,794.
This includes 619 licenses revoked for non-payment of fees and 912 revoked for dormancy in the previous year.
Officials said the measures are part of broader reforms meant to enhance accountability, encourage active participation and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s mining sector in line with the country’s economic diversification agenda.
ABUJA, Nigeria – Bantu Gazette
