Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has announced that the country generated nearly ₦7 billion in mining licence fees in the first quarter of 2025—an indicator, he says, of the nation’s progress towards greater economic development.
Speaking at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Forum in Paris, Dr Alake stated that Nigeria is already setting a strong example in the sustainable development of its mineral sector. According to a statement shared on his official X account, the minister noted that over 1,200 artisanal cooperatives have been formalised and hundreds of new mining licences approved.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to boosting investor confidence while maintaining environmental sustainability and adding value to the sector. “Nigeria is already showing what’s possible,” Alake said. “In Q1 2025, we generated nearly ₦7 billion in mining licence fees, formalised 1,200+ artisanal cooperatives, and approved hundreds of licences, all while pushing for sustainability, value addition, and investor confidence.”
As Chair of the Africa Mineral Strategy Group (AMSG), Alake said he is working with other African leaders to ensure the continent shifts from merely exporting raw materials to becoming a global leader in value-added mineral processing and clean energy supply chains.
Highlighting Africa’s growing importance in the energy transition, he pointed to the continent’s increasing share in the global supply of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, tantalum, and copper. He argued that Africa must embrace a new model—one rooted in long-term, inclusive growth and responsible mineral development.
Dr Alake further called for global collaboration, stressing the need for transparent, ethical, and resilient supply chains. “Nigeria is ready to work with global partners to promote responsible sourcing, encourage beneficiation, and deliver long-term economic value,” he said.
He concluded by underlining the pivotal role mining will play in shaping the future of electricity, transport, and communication, urging global stakeholders to take decisive action. “There has never been a more critical moment for leadership,” he declared. “Let us not only talk about change but drive it.”