The federal government generated N6.95 billion from mining-related fees in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.
He revealed the figures during a briefing on sectoral achievements under the current administration.
Alake stated that the amount was collected from royalties, licenses, and various statutory fees within the sector. He added that the revenue was part of ongoing efforts to reposition mining as a viable alternative to oil, noting that the performance represented a significant step toward diversifying the nation’s economy.
He emphasized that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development had ramped up enforcement actions, including the formalization of artisanal miners and the creation of new security units to tackle illegal mining. According to the minister, 152 illegal miners were arrested during the period, while 133 equipment units were seized in coordinated operations across key mining zones.
Alake also confirmed that Nigeria exported 2.7 million metric tonnes of solid minerals in the same quarter, underscoring the growing international interest in the country’s mining potential. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing reforms that would ensure transparency, accountability, and increased investor confidence in the sector.
