Mining Sector Attracts 955 Title Applications and Generates N6.96bn in Q1

Nigeria’s mining sector recorded 955 fresh title applications and generated N6.96 billion in regulatory fees in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.

The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development confirmed the figures through official data released at the second Annual Mining Conference held in Abuja.

The report indicates a broad shift in investor sentiment following reforms in the licensing process and expansion of downstream frameworks to formalise mineral trading.

According to the Ministry, applications received covered multiple segments like exploration, small-scale mining, quarrying, and reconnaissance operations.

The increase in applications follows the government’s drive to simplify title acquisition and promote resource-based economic diversification.

Regulatory fees collected during the period were driven by application processing, annual service charges, and title renewals.

The Mining Cadastral Office processed the inflows in line with its statutory mandate to regulate and manage Nigeria’s mining assets.

In parallel with title applications, the Ministry also registered 118 new private mineral buying centres across the country as part of a wider effort to improve mineral traceability and boost formal market activity.

Officials say the increase in title applications is the result of enhanced transparency and targeted investor engagement by the government.

The licensing portal has also undergone structural improvements aimed at reducing administrative delays and resolving disputes tied to overlapping claims.

The Ministry reiterated its focus on building a structured and bankable sector through policy frameworks that enable local participation and private capital inflow.

It also announced ongoing plans to establish the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation as a commercially driven entity to manage strategic resources and attract institutional investment.

With application volumes rising and licensing revenues exceeding expectations, Nigeria’s mining space is gradually establishing its relevance in the broader economic landscape.