In a significant move to enforce compliance in the mining sector, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has made the decision to revoke 1,633 mineral titles previously granted to non-compliant mining companies.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, during a press briefing held in Abuja. The move comes as a result of the companies’ failure to fulfill their obligations, specifically the non-payment of mandatory annual service fees amounting to N1,500 per cadastral unit.
Breaking down the affected titles, Alake revealed that the revoked licenses comprised 536 Exploration Licenses, 279 Quarry Licenses, 787 Small Scale Mining Licenses, and 31 Mining Leases. This action aligns with the powers vested in the Minister by the NMMA 2007, Section 5 (a).
Alake stated, “In line with the powers conferred on me by the NMMA 2007, Section 5 (a), I have approved the revocation of the 1,633 titles.” This decisive step is expected to send a clear message about the government’s commitment to ensuring adherence to regulations in the mining industry.
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As the nation continues to explore and harness its mineral resources for economic development, this move underscores the importance of accountability and compliance within the sector. It signals a proactive approach by the government to streamline operations, promote responsible mining practices, and safeguard the nation’s mineral wealth.
This development serves as a reminder to all stakeholders in the mining industry that compliance with regulatory requirements is not negotiable. The government’s commitment to maintaining order and transparency in the sector is evident, setting the stage for a more robust and sustainable mining environment in Nigeria.
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