metro
They’re threatening me for revoking 1,263 mining licences – Minister
They’re threatening me for revoking 1,263 mining licences – Minister
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, says some individuals are threatening him following his cancellation of 1,263 mining licences belonging to operators who failed to pay their annual service fees.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 10th Nigeria Mining Week, themed “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance”, on Friday in Abuja, Alake said some of those affected had threatened international arbitration and sponsored negative media campaigns against the ministry’s reforms.
He, however, stated that the threats would not deter him from pursuing the reforms necessary to sanitise the sector, noting that the decision was crucial to ensuring the country gains fair economic returns from its mineral resources.
“Some people have had licenses since former President Olusegun Obasanjo regime but have not used it,” he said.
According to Alake, Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has grown significantly, with its contribution to the nation’s GDP rising from less than 0.5 per cent a decade ago to about 4.65 per cent, and further growth projected in the years ahead.
He said this progress reflected a more vibrant mining industry, with increasing investments and visible benefits to local communities.
“In practical terms, this means more mines in operation, more companies investing and more communities being impacted by mining activity.
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“The ideas of strong data, more investment and greater beneficiation that seemed far off are now realities shaping the sector,” he said.
The minister explained that this year’s mining week aligns with Nigeria’s strategy to maximise revenue by adding value to minerals and leveraging opportunities in the global energy transition.
He highlighted that the annual event had documented the industry’s evolution from an informal system to one defined by structure, innovation and private-sector participation.
Under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Alake said the ministry had implemented reforms to improve transparency, de-risk investments and unlock value across the mineral development chain.
He added that the government’s goal was to position Nigeria as a globally competitive mining destination through enhanced regulation, sustainable practices and better utilisation of its vast mineral wealth.
According to him, the 10th edition of the Nigeria Mining Week will feature about 100 exhibitors showcasing advanced mining technologies and attract more than 3,500 delegates from within and outside Nigeria.
He noted that international mining delegations from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East would be in attendance, reflecting the growing global interest in Nigeria’s mineral potential.
“Together through collaborative efforts, innovation and steadfast commitment, we will reposition Nigeria as a major force in the global mining landscape,” he said.
In his remarks, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. Dele Ayankale, said the 10th edition of the event represents a decade of impact, innovation and partnership in the solid minerals industry.
He described the forum as a vital platform for dialogue and reform, linking policymakers, investors and industry operators to drive progress in the sector.
According to him, Nigeria has recorded remarkable progress in exploration, artisanal mining formalisation, investment inflows and the deployment of modern technologies to promote sustainability.
“Minerals such as gold, limestone, barite, lithium and bitumen have gained renewed attention, and through enhanced collaboration, we are seeing tangible contributions to job creation, community development and economic diversification,” he said.
They’re threatening me for revoking 1,263 mining licences – Minister
metro
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
The Delta State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu in Anambra State, arresting key suspects linked to the case.
Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe disclosed on Sunday that operatives of the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), acting on credible intelligence, apprehended 25-year-old security guard Godwin Mngumi on 6 December 2025. Mngumi allegedly murdered the retired judge, and authorities also recovered the deceased’s mobile phone from him.
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According to Edafe, Mngumi confessed to inviting a friend, Nnaji Obalum, and another accomplice — who remains at large — to the residence where the crime was committed. Obalum has since been arrested, while a manhunt continues for the third suspect.
The arrests mark a major step forward in the effort to bring all perpetrators of the high-profile murder to justice.
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
metro
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
The Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has made significant strides in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crimes. Recent operations, including an intelligence-led arms recovery in Abraka and the arraignment of 18 suspects, highlight the command’s intensified enforcement efforts across the state.
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Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe said on Saturday that the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), under ASP Julius Robinson, executed a successful operation on December 6, 2025, targeting cult-related activities and the proliferation of illegal firearms. Acting on credible intelligence, officers conducted a coordinated search at No. 2 Umeghe Community, Abraka, the residence of Isiakpere Friday, 67.
The move underscores the Delta State Police’s commitment to restoring safety and security in communities affected by criminal and cult-related activities.
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
metro
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
The Nigerian Army has temporarily frozen both statutory and voluntary retirements for certain officers, including Generals, following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. The decision aims to bolster manpower as the country faces a surge in kidnappings and worsening insecurity.
The move comes after more than 600 abduction cases were reported in November 2025, including the kidnapping of over 300 students in Niger State, 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and 25 students in Kebbi State.
An internal circular dated December 3 and signed by Maj. Gen. E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff cited provisions in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service Officers (HTACOS) 2024, allowing service extensions “in the interest of the service.” The memo explains that officers usually retire upon reaching age limits, completing 35 years of service, or failing promotion/conversion boards, but these rules can be overridden during national emergencies.
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The suspension affects officers who have:
- Failed promotion examinations three times
- Been passed over repeatedly at promotion boards
- Reached rank age limits
- Failed conversion boards thrice
- Completed 35 years of service
Officers granted extensions will remain in service but will not be eligible for further promotions, courses, secondments, or extra-regimental appointments. Those unwilling to continue can still proceed with standard exit procedures.
Commanders have been instructed to communicate the directive and manage morale across units, with the policy to be reviewed once national security conditions improve.
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
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