“We are laying the foundation for Nigeria where mineral resources create Nigerian jobs, feed Nigerian industries, and build Nigerian prosperity.” – Dele Alake
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, says the Federal Government will revoke an additional 1,000 dormant mining licences, following the cancellation of over 900 such titles in 2024.
Speaking at the opening of the maiden National Steel Summit in Abuja on Wednesday, Alake said the move was part of efforts to clean up the licensing system and curb speculation in the sector. “The Solid Minerals sector is no longer a playground for opportunists. It is a driver of national industrial growth and continental leadership,” he said.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to process its mineral wealth locally to create jobs, feed industries, and build national prosperity, aligning mineral policies with steel production capacity.
Other ministers at the event, including Dr Jumoke Oduwole (Industry, Trade and Investment) and Mr Shuiabu Audu (Steel Development), underscored the steel sector’s role as a backbone for industrialization and called for sustained reforms, investment, and collaboration to boost competitiveness.