No State Has the Right to Intervene in Mining Activities, Declares Dele Alake

Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, addressed recent actions by the governors of Gombe and Kogi States, as well as the closure of Segilola Mining Company by the Osun State Government over tax and operational issues. CONTINUE READING>>>

Alake emphasized that state governments have no authority to intervene in mining activities, as mining is a constitutional matter under the control of the Federal Government.

In a report by Punch, Dele Alake explained that state-level bans on mining are problematic because mining falls under the exclusive legislative list, meaning only the Federal Government has the power to regulate it.

He reiterated that no state government has the authority to interfere in mining operations, emphasizing that this is clearly defined in the Constitution.

Alake also warned that arbitrary shutdowns of mining operations by state governments could discourage foreign investment and potentially lead to divestment by existing companies.

However, he clarified that states interested in mining can still participate if they follow proper procedures. CONTINUE READING>>>

States can establish a special purpose vehicle (SPV), apply for a mining license through the Ministry of Solid Minerals, and if they meet all the necessary requirements, they would be granted approval to operate.