Business
States cannot ban mining activities, minister tackles govs
States cannot ban mining activities, minister tackles govs
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake has declared that governors do not have the constitutional powers to ban mining activities.
He made the statement during a pre-event press conference in Abuja ahead of the 8th edition of the annual Nigerian Mining Week 2023 slated for October 16-18,2023 in Abuja.
According to him, mining remains on the exclusive list of the Federal Government in the Constitution, hence it is not under the purview of a state governor as far as the enactment laws, and regulations of operations of solid minerals are concerned.
The minister cautioned governors to desist from taking laws into their hands to regulate the sector and said it is illegal to do so, which also they are not constitutionally empowered to regulate oil and gas activities.
He said, “The state’s ban on mining activities across the court is a point that is really sore. And it’s a constitutional matter. I want to use this opportunity to get to the entire Nigerian public that no state and I repeat, no state has the authority to interfere in mining operations, no state has the authority and it is not it’s a no-brainer. It’s a constitutional matter.
“Mining belongs exclusively in the purview of the federal government, according to the Constitution. It is in the exclusive legislative list. It is not in the residual.
“It is not in the concurrent it’s in the exclusive legislative list. Every item on the exclusive, legislative list belongs to the federal government.
“There is no doubt about that. All items on the residual list belong to the states and all items in a concurrent section belong to both, but mining like oil and solid Minerals belongs in the exclusive legislative, therefore, it is the federal government that has the authority.
“Legal authorities as supported by the Constitution make laws regulations and operationalization of the Solid Minerals resources of Nigeria.
“Now, because of the peculiar nature of solid minerals, because of the involvement of the local communities or the host communities, there is an engagement even in the regulatory framework of mining operations.
“There is an engagement close with the host communities and the federal government through the Ministry of Solid has been engaging with host communities in fact, in the licensing operations or processes or procedures, there is a provision for the engagement with the host communities. Now these host communities also belong in the various states.”
He however pointed out that, “we are not against any state that wants to engage a mining operations as long as it follows due process.
“If any state wants to engage in mining, it can form its own Special Purpose Vehicle, SPV, apply for a mining licence from the office of the Minister of Solid Minerals; go through the due process and be so licensed if it meets all the criteria. Such a state is like any company or like any individual, institution, or corporate body.
“But for a State to wake up and say it is regulating mining activities is like a state waking up to ban oil exploration; it is downright illegal.”
Business
NCC Orders MTN, Other Telcos to Compensate Subscribers for Poor Network Service
NCC Orders MTN, Other Telcos to Compensate Subscribers for Poor Network Service
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed major mobile network operators (MNOs), including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, to compensate subscribers affected by poor network quality in areas where performance falls below regulatory standards. The move is part of a broader shift toward a consumer-focused approach aimed at protecting users and strengthening accountability in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
In a statement on Sunday, Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at the NCC, emphasized that subscribers should not bear the full burden of service disruptions caused by operators’ failure to meet prescribed benchmarks. She explained that compensation will be provided in the form of airtime credits, calculated based on subscribers’ average spending patterns and the duration of service outages in affected areas.
READ ALSO:
- Abuja Convention: Wike PDP Faction Confirms Mohammed as Chairman, Anyanwu as Secretary
- Debate as OPM Pastor Marries Autistic Man to Older Woman
- Jos Attack: Plateau Govt Declares 48-Hour Curfew After Deadly Assault
“Erring operators will compensate affected users directly for breaches of quality of service key performance indicators within specified time frames,” Ukoha said. She added that while regulatory fines have traditionally served as a deterrent against poor service delivery, the commission is now adopting a more consumer-centric approach that ensures users directly benefit from enforcement actions.
Under the directive, tower companies and network providers are also required to reinvest fines and penalties into infrastructure upgrades, aimed at addressing coverage gaps and improving overall network quality. Subscribers are encouraged to report service interruptions to their operators and the NCC to ensure timely compensation.
Industry observers have welcomed the move, describing it as a significant step toward empowering telecom users, improving quality of service (QoS), and holding operators accountable for network performance failures. The NCC will monitor compliance closely and take further action against any operators that fail to meet the compensation and service standards.
NCC Orders MTN, Other Telcos to Compensate Subscribers for Poor Network Service
Auto
Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos
Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos
Motoring World, one of Nigeria’s foremost automotive publications, will celebrate its 30th anniversary on June 4, 2026, with a high-profile event at the MUSON Centre.
The milestone gathering is expected to draw policymakers, industry leaders, diplomats and innovators to commemorate three decades of impactful journalism, advocacy and contribution to the growth of Nigeria’s automotive sector.
Founded on June 12, 1996, as a syndicated radio magazine programme, Motoring World pioneered automotive broadcasting in Nigeria before expanding into print in 1998. It has since evolved into a multi-platform brand at the forefront of promoting industry development, modernization and policy reform.
Over the years, the publication has gone beyond news reporting to play an active role in shaping regulatory frameworks, encouraging local content development and promoting industry standards.
Publisher and Chief Executive Officer, Femi Owoeye, said the organisation was driven by a clear vision from inception.
READ ALSO:
- Nigeria Police Reform: 222,000 Officers May Move to State Commands
- Iran Threatens US-Linked Universities in Middle East Amid Escalating Tensions
- Iranian Strike on Saudi Base Damages US Spy Plane, Injures 12 Troops
“Motoring World started with a simple vision: to give voice and structure to Nigeria’s automotive industry. Over the years, we have gone beyond reporting to actively advocate policies that support industry growth, local production and a more structured ecosystem,” he said.
Activities lined up for the anniversary include the unveiling of a special 30th anniversary edition of Motoring World magazine, chronicling the evolution, milestones and future of the industry. Distinguished stakeholders with three decades of contributions to the sector will also be honoured.
A keynote lecture titled, “Reporting the Road Ahead: Automotive Journalism as a Catalyst for Nigeria’s Auto Industry Development,” will underscore the critical role of the media in shaping the nation’s automotive landscape.
Dignitaries expected at the event include the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin; state governors, transport commissioners and members of the diplomatic corps.
Owoeye noted that the anniversary represents more than a celebration.
“This is a tribute to resilience, strong partnerships and the collective drive that has sustained the industry. As we honour key players and reflect on our journey, we are also setting the tone for the next phase of mobility in Nigeria,” he added.
The event promises a blend of reflection, recognition and renewed commitment to advancing Nigeria’s automotive industry.
Motoring World marks 30 years, set to rally industry leaders in Lagos
Auto
Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase
Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase
Hyundai Nigeria has unveiled the all-new Hyundai Palisade in Lagos, headlining a media showcase that also featured the Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Tucson and Hyundai Santa Fe, as the automaker intensifies its push across key segments of the Nigerian market.
The event, held at the company’s Victoria Island showroom, offered journalists a first-hand view of Hyundai’s expanding portfolio, ranging from entry-level sedans to premium three-row SUVs.
Taking centre stage was the debut of the Palisade, Hyundai’s flagship SUV, positioned to strengthen the brand’s foothold in the premium segment.
With its bold exterior styling, spacious three-row layout, upscale interior and advanced safety and convenience features, the model is targeted at families and executive buyers seeking comfort, space and strong road presence.
Across the line-up, Hyundai showcased a broad spectrum of offerings. The Santa Fe reinforces its appeal as a refined, family-oriented SUV with generous cabin space and premium detailing, while the Tucson stands out for its blend of modern design, practicality and everyday versatility.
In the compact SUV category, the Creta was highlighted for its mix of style, efficiency and urban functionality, while the Accent sedan retains its positioning as a practical and cost-effective option for young professionals, fleet operators and first-time buyers.
Speaking at the event, Brand Head, Hyundai Nigeria, Gaurav Vashisht, said the launch underscores the company’s commitment to deepening its footprint in Nigeria with globally competitive products adapted to local needs.
“This introduction of the all-new Palisade strengthens our premium SUV offering while complementing a well-rounded line-up that delivers on design, safety, innovation and everyday usability,” he said.
The showcase also provided an avenue for media interaction with Hyundai executives and product specialists, alongside detailed vehicle walkarounds covering design, technology and safety features.
Hyundai Nigeria reaffirmed its focus on delivering globally benchmarked vehicles with strong local relevance, even as competition intensifies in Nigeria’s evolving passenger vehicle market.
The event also marked the launch of Hyundai’s Easter campaign, offering customers value-added benefits such as complimentary delivery, accessories, registration and service packages.
-
metro2 days agoTragedy in Aramoko: Trailer Rams Residential Building, Kills 300‑Level Student
-
News2 days agoFinal Notice: FG Orders Civil Servants to Complete PASGA Verification by March 31
-
metro12 hours agoJos Attack: Plateau Govt Declares 48-Hour Curfew After Deadly Assault
-
Entertainment2 days agoNollywood Actress Declares Love for Ibrahim Chatta, Offers to Pay Her Own Dowry
-
Entertainment2 days agoStreamer Peller Escorted Out of Alake of Egbaland’s Palace in Abeokuta
-
International2 days agoIranian Missiles, Drones Strike US Air Base in Saudi Arabia
-
News3 days agoKano Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, Resigns
-
metro2 days agoADC Chairman’s Daughter Joins Pro-Tinubu Campaign Organisation


