The Federal Government has revoked 1,263 mineral licences from operators who failed to pay mandatory annual service fees, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced on Wednesday.

The affected licences include 584 exploration licences, 65 mining leases, 144 quarry licences, and 470 small-scale mining leases. The revocation followed recommendations from the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO).

Speaking through his media aide, Segun Tomori, Alake said the move aims to eliminate speculators and unserious investors while opening opportunities for diligent players. “The era of obtaining licences and keeping them in drawers for the highest bidder while financially capable and industrious businessmen are denied access is over,” he said.

Defaulting licencees will also face accountability, with their names forwarded to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for recovery.

Simon Nkom, Director-General of the MCO, explained that 1,957 licencees were initially flagged as defaulters in the Federal Government Gazette on June 19, 2025, and given 30 days to comply. Delays in final revocations were due to reconciliation of payments made through Remita by some operators.

Under the current administration, a total of 3,794 mineral titles have been revoked, including 619 for non-payment of fees and 912 for dormancy last year. Alake noted that the reforms have already delivered “massive and manifest” positive effects in the sector, despite resistance from some defaulters.