Under the visionary leadership of Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) has made remarkable strides in revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector over the past year.

Between May 2023 and April 2024, the MCO generated a landmark ₦8.2 billion in revenue in October 2024 alone, contributing to a cumulative ₦36 billion since inception. This surge stems from Minister Alake’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and technological innovation—embodied by the launch of the fully digital licensing platform, eMC+.

The platform has streamlined the processing of over 10,500 mining license applications, with more than half coming from international investors eager to unlock Nigeria’s mineral wealth. Reflecting on this progress, Minister Alake said,

"Our goal is clear: to build a mining sector that is transparent, investor-friendly, and a true engine of economic growth for Nigeria."

To ensure the sector’s integrity, the MCO revoked 1,619 licenses for non-payment and canceled 912 dormant titles, creating space for active and committed miners. This decisive action aligns with the Minister’s mandate to promote responsible mining and sustainable development.

The impact on job creation and economic empowerment has been significant: 258 new mining and quarrying companies now operate across the country, generating more than 9,000 new jobs in key mineral sectors such as tin, lithium, and precious metals.

Minister Alake emphasized,

"By formalizing artisanal miners and promoting international partnerships, we are opening doors for inclusive growth and global competitiveness."

International engagements, including the London Mines and Money and African Mining Indaba, have amplified Nigeria’s voice on the global stage, attracting foreign investments and strategic partnerships—a key priority for the Minister.

As the mid-term report reveals, the MCO’s achievements under Minister Dele Alake’s leadership showcase the power of visionary governance and innovative reforms in transforming Nigeria’s mining sector into a sustainable growth frontier.

"The future is bright for Nigeria’s mining industry," Minister Alake concluded. "We are laying the foundation for generations of prosperity."