The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, says no amount of blackmail, threats, or intimidation will stop the Federal Government’s sweeping reforms in the mining sector.
Dr. Alake who stated this at a news briefing to commence this year’s Nigeria Mining Week starting tomorrow in Abuja reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sanitizing the industry and attracting serious investors.
The minister highlighted that these reforms are not without resistance revealed that some affected parties have resorted to threats, smear campaigns, and even personal intimidation in an attempt to derail the process
He emphasized he has tripled his personal security but remains undaunted, because his confidence lies in doing what is right for the country.
“The mining sector used to be an all-comers affair. We came in to change that. Some people are not happy and have resorted to threats, but I want to assure Nigerians we will not back down.”
Dr. Alake stated that regulatory enforcement is ongoing, including the revocation of licenses from operators who have defaulted on service fees or failed to develop their sites, some for over a decade.
Dr. Alake, stated that reforms in the mining sector are already yielding results with new data from the National Bureau of Statistics showing growth in the sector’s contribution to the country’s economy.
According to him, From less than 0.5% a decade ago, mining now contributes 1.8% to GDP, with a notable spike to 4.61% recorded in the second quarter of 2025.
Dr. Alake says this growth reflects increased mining activity, more investor interest, and greater impact on local communities.
He also revealed that a pre-shipment agency for solid minerals is being established, alongside enhanced satellite surveillance and plans to double the number of mining marshals across local governments to tackle illegal mining.
In his remarks, the President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, expressed support for the ongoing reforms, commending the minister’s efforts and encouraging investors to harness the opportunities in the sector.
The Themed for this year’s event is “Nigerian Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance” put together by the Miners Association of Nigeria, Vuka Group, PwC, and other key players.
With these reforms in motion, the government says its eyes remain on the goal a transparent, well-regulated mining sector that drives industrial growth and attracts global investment.
