Tinubu backs tough action on illegal mining, granting full authority to Minister Dele Alake to confront interference in the solid minerals sector. Alake revealed this at the 2025 Ministerial Retreat in Abuja. He addressed challenges facing his ministry and how entrenched interests continue to undermine reform efforts.
The minister explained that certain state actors and private beneficiaries are resisting the crackdown on illegal mining. These groups, he said, have tried to discredit the Mining Marshal—a security unit created to tackle illegal operations. Some accused the unit of corruption, but none provided credible evidence.
Alake emphasized that he would not dismiss anyone without proof. “I don’t bow to blackmail or accept inducements,” he stated firmly.
He warned that state-imposed bans and regulatory overlaps are scaring away investors. Solid minerals fall under the Exclusive Legislative List, giving only the Federal Government power to regulate the sector. Alake noted that despite multiple warnings, some state governors continue to ignore constitutional boundaries.
Tinubu backs tough action on illegal mining to restore clarity and investor confidence. Alake said he informed the president about the ongoing defiance and received approval to respond decisively.
To address state interests legally, Alake encouraged governors to create companies and apply for mining licenses. Some complied, but others remain resistant. The minister vowed to continue engaging but warned that tougher actions would follow.
He also announced the launch of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Company (NSMC), a new firm aimed at boosting investment. The company has a unique structure: 50% owned by private investors, 25% by the government, and 25% offered publicly.
The NSMC will take over assets from the defunct Nigerian Mining Corporation. It has opened an office in Abuja and is finalizing operations with consulting firms and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.
Alake listed several achievements under his watch. Mining licence revenue doubled from ₦6 billion in 2023 to ₦12.58 billion in 2024. Royalties rose to ₦36.8 billion. Over 300 artisanal cooperatives were formalized.
“These numbers prove that strong leadership can transform this sector,” he said. “We are turning solid minerals into a reliable non-oil revenue source.”
Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, Chair of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, backed the reforms. He said Nigeria’s mining revenue rose from $6 billion to $38 billion in under two years. Foreign investment reached $800 billion during the same period.
Gaza described the creation of NSMC as a masterstroke. He urged the government to build institutions that last beyond current leaders.
The ministerial retreat gathered lawmakers, ministry staff, and industry stakeholders. They aligned strategic goals with the Renewed Hope Agenda. The retreat also promoted inter-departmental coordination and accountability through performance-focused planning.
Tinubu backs tough action on illegal mining as Nigeria pushes forward with reforms to secure investments, increase revenue, and stop illegal practices in the mining sector.
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