FG Revokes 1,263 Mining Licences Over Unpaid Fees

By OBIOMA TORI

THE Federal Government has revoked 1,263 mineral licences for default in payment of annual service fees.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, approved the revocation on the recommendation of the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO). The licences revoked include 584 exploration licences, 65 mining leases, 144 quarry licences, and 470 small-scale mining leases.

Alake said the move, part of efforts to sanitise the sector, would open up fresh opportunities for serious investors while discouraging speculation. He stressed that failure to pay annual fees showed lack of commitment, warning that debts owed would be referred to the EFCC for recovery.

Since President Tinubu assumed office, a total of 3,794 mineral licences have been revoked for non-compliance and dormancy.