Minister Announces Revocation of 1,633 Mineral Licences, Issues Stern Warning

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Oladele Alake, has declared the cancellation of mineral titles for 1,633 holders, accompanied by a stern caution for the former title holders to promptly evacuate all affected cadastres.

In an announcement made during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday evening, Alake elucidated that the mineral titles were rescinded due to the holders’ failure to remit the prescribed annual service fees in a timely manner.

The Minister disclosed that security agencies, working in conjunction with the Mines Inspectorate of the Ministry, have been given the mandate to apprehend any defaulter discovered within the areas where titles have been annulled.

Despite a 30-day default notice issued by the Mining Cadastre Office, the holders were discovered to be in contravention and non-compliance with their statutory obligations to the government, prompting the decisive action.

Alake underscored the importance of adherence to regulatory requirements, emphasising that the timely payment of the prescribed annual service fees is a fundamental obligation for mineral title holders.

Failure to meet this obligation, as evidenced by the violators, led to the revocation of their titles.

The Minister stressed the gravity of the matter, stating that such actions were imperative to uphold the integrity of the mining sector and ensure that participants fulfil their responsibilities promptly.

Addressing the media, Alake reiterated that the collaboration between security agencies and the Mines Inspectorate was a strategic move to enforce compliance swiftly.

He cautioned that any defaulter found within the regions where titles or licences were revoked would face apprehension by the authorised agencies.

Source: Leadership News