FEDERAL GOVERNMENT REVOKES 1,263 MINERAL LICENSES

opeolumartinSeptember 22, 202502 mins

ABUJA, SEPTEMBER 22, 2025
In a sweeping move to sanitize Nigeria’s mining sector, the Federal Government has revoked 1,263 mineral licenses due to defaults in the payment of annual service fees.
The revoked licenses include:
• 584 exploration licenses
• 65 mining leases
• 144 quarry licenses
• 470 small-scale mining leases
The decision was approved by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, following recommendations from the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO).

The minister emphasized that the enforcement of the law is part of ongoing efforts to clear the sector of speculators and unserious investors.
“We will continue to apply the full weight of the law to ensure only genuine and diligent investors operate in Nigeria’s mining industry,” Alake stated. “This is essential for the long-term growth and sustainability of the sector.”

The latest round of revocations brings the total number of mineral titles cancelled under the current administration to 3,794. This figure includes 619 mineral titles revoked last year for non-payment of service fees and 912 titles for dormancy.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to repositioning the solid minerals sector as a viable alternative to oil, calling on investors to adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of their licenses.