Dele Alake: Some mining operators are threatening international arbitration over revoked licences

Dele Alake, the minister of solid minerals, says he has received threats over the revocation of 1,263 mining licences for non-payment of annual fees, but insists that he would not be deterred from taking further action.

On September 21, the federal government announced it revoked the licences over unpaid service fees and directed the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) to delete them from its electronic portal.

Following the announcement, Alake said some operators whose licences were revoked had been threatening international arbitration against him over the action.

Speaking at the 10th Nigeria Mining Week, themed ‘Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance’ on Friday in Abuja, the minister said some mining operators sponsored media attacks against the sector reforms.

Alake said sanitising the sector is necessary and would naturally attract resistance from some quarters, but he took the step to ensure Nigeria obtains commensurate revenue from the sector for national development.

He said some individuals have held licences since former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime without using them.

According to the minister, the nation’s solid minerals sector has increased its contribution to the nation’s GDP from less than 0.5 percent 10 years ago to about 4.65 percent, with higher growth projected in the coming years.

“In practical terms, this means more mines in operation, more companies investing, and more communities being impacted by mining activity,” Alake said.

“The ideas of strong data, more investment and greater beneficiation that seemed far off are now realities shaping the sector.”

Also, Alake said the mining week aligns with Nigeria’s goal to boost revenue by adding value to minerals and tapping energy transition opportunities.

He noted that the event showcases the sector’s transformation, attracts global interest, and positions Nigeria as a competitive mining investment destination, with over 3,500 delegates and 100 exhibitors participating.

The minister said the international mining delegations from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East are participating in the event, showcasing growing global interest in Nigeria’s mineral potential.

Building on the Renewed Hope Agenda’s reforms to enhance transparency and unlock value, he said the ministry has positioned Nigeria’s mineral sector for global recognition.

“Together, through collaborative efforts, innovation and steadfast commitment, we will reposition Nigeria as a major force in the global mining landscape,” he said.

MINING WEEK MARKS 10 YEARS OF SOLID MINERALS SECTOR IMPACT, SAYS MAN PRESIDENT

Dele Ayankale, president of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), said the 10th edition of the mining week marks a decade of impact, innovation, and collaboration in the solid minerals sector.

Ayankale said the week highlights Nigeria’s progress in exploration, investment, and sustainability, with minerals like gold, lithium, and bitumen contributing to job creation, community development, and economic diversification.

The Nigeria Mining Week, scheduled for October 13–15, is a platform driving dialogue, reform, and innovation in the mining sector through partnerships and modern technologies.

Organised by MAN in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the VUKA Group, the event brings together industry stakeholders to explore new opportunities.