Nigeria is showing encouraging signs of economic progress, with the Federal Government collecting close to ₦7 billion in mining license fees during the first quarter of 2025, according to Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.

Speaking at the OECD Forum in Paris, Alake highlighted these figures as part of broader efforts to reform and strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector. He noted that over 1,200 artisanal cooperatives have been formalised, and hundreds of new licenses approved—moves aimed at boosting sustainability, enhancing investor confidence, and promoting value addition in the solid minerals space.

“As Chair of the Africa Mineral Strategy Group, I’m proud to work with leaders across the continent to unlock inclusive, long-term growth from our rich mineral resources,” Alake said on his official 𝕏 platform. “It’s time for Africa to move from exporting raw materials to owning the future of clean energy.”

Alake stressed the continent’s strategic role in the global energy transition, particularly its growing contribution to the supply of critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum. He advocated for a shift in Africa’s role—from a raw material exporter to a value-added producer, with local beneficiation and supply chain development.

He also emphasized that building ethical, resilient, and transparent mineral supply chains requires collaboration among governments, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. “Nigeria is ready to work with global partners to promote responsible sourcing, encourage beneficiation, and deliver long-term economic value,” he stated.

Alake concluded with a call for decisive leadership, urging stakeholders to seize the moment: “The future of electricity, transportation, telecommunications, and indeed global prosperity depends on the work we do here. Let us embrace this opportunity, not just to discuss change, but to drive it.”