Nigeria Earns N6.9 Billion from Mining Fees in Q1 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, Nigeria’s mining sector contributed over N6.9 billion to the government’s coffers, marking a significant financial boost from regulatory fees alone. This was revealed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who highlighted the figure as a key indicator of progress in the industry.

Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Alake shared that N6,957,826,200 was generated within the first three months of the year. He also confirmed that 118 private mineral buying centers were registered during the same period—a development he attributed to increased awareness and strategic reforms aimed at attracting investors.

The Mining Cadastral Office, according to the Minister, processed 955 applications for various mining titles. Of these, 867 were approved, consisting of:

• 512 exploration licenses,
• 295 small-scale mining leases,
• 60 quarry leases, and
• 5 standard mining leases.

Alake noted that these approvals reflect a streamlined licensing process and a proactive push to formalize mining activities nationwide.

He further disclosed that plans are underway to establish the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation—an initiative that will serve as a government-backed investment vehicle, giving Nigerians the opportunity to hold equity through a public offering. The project is being executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).

International cooperation is also gaining momentum. Alake revealed that France has pledged to upgrade the laboratory facilities of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) and train young geologists in advanced mining techniques. Meanwhile, Western Australia is set to welcome the first batch of Nigerian mining professionals for technical training next month.

Additionally, partnerships with investors from Britain, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are helping to strengthen Nigeria’s role across the mineral value chain. A new memorandum of understanding was also signed recently with South Africa to enhance Nigeria’s geological capabilities.

The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to value addition in the sector. According to him, curbing the export of unprocessed minerals and promoting local beneficiation has helped position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s mining landscape. This strategy, he noted, was a major reason Nigeria was recently named chair of the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG).

Alake concluded by stressing the government’s determination to build a globally competitive and resilient mining industry through reforms, partnerships, and public-private collaboration.