According to a report from PUNCH, Nigeria has apprehended over 300 unlawful operators, with more than 133 currently facing prosecution, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced on Friday.
Addressing the Nigeria Middle East Investors Expo and Awards, Alake stated that the reforms implemented by the Tinubu administration have led to a renewed interest from global investors in Nigeria's mining sector.
"We have over 44 globally sought critical minerals in Nigeria," Alake said.
"A crucial factor for foreign investment is data, and we are working to significantly increase funding for exploration to generate the necessary big data that will attract major international players and position Nigeria as a global mining destination."
Alake highlighted the impact of the ministry's 7-point agenda, particularly the success of the mining marshals in combating illegal mining activities across the country.
"Since deploying the mining marshals as part of our comprehensive plan to sanitize the mining environment, they have been working assiduously and efficiently. Over 300 illegal operators have been apprehended, with more than 133 currently undergoing prosecution. We are making significant progress," he said.
To further enhance the operations of the mining marshals, Alake revealed plans to incorporate satellite monitoring of mining sites, allowing the ministry to identify and promptly address any illicit activities.
Alake also highlighted the abundance of high-grade critical minerals in Nigeria, including over 40 million tonnes of talc deposits, approximately 1 billion metric tonnes of iron ore, and an estimated 10 metric tonnes of lead and zinc.
In a move to improve the ease of doing business in the sector, the minister announced a review of mining rates and dues, aimed at maximizing royalties from critical minerals such as lithium and gold to boost the nation's revenue and contribute significantly to economic development.