Mineral resources in Nigeria are vested in the Federal Government and regulated under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007. Mineral titles are granted through the Mining Cadastre Office, and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development oversees policy and regulation of the sector.
Nigeria has deposits of gold, lithium, tin, columbite, iron ore, limestone, barite, lead, zinc and other minerals, and the government has introduced measures to attract investment and formalise artisanal activity.
Mineral titles
- Reconnaissance permits
- Exploration licences
- Small-scale mining leases
- Mining leases
- Quarry leases
- Water use permits
Each title has its own eligibility requirements, application process, work obligations and fees. Applications are made online through the Mining Cadastre Office, and titles can be revoked for failure to meet obligations.
Community and environmental obligations
Mining lease holders must enter into community development agreements with host communities, setting out commitments on matters such as employment, infrastructure and social investment. Operators must also comply with environmental requirements, including environmental impact assessments and rehabilitation obligations.
How we assist
- Advising on the title required and preparing applications
- Corporate structuring of mining companies, including foreign participation
- Due diligence on mineral titles for investors and acquirers
- Transfers of mineral titles and joint ventures
- Community development agreements and stakeholder engagement
- Offtake, processing and export arrangements
- Regulatory compliance and responses to enforcement action
- Disputes over titles, encroachment and community issues
Related services
Foreign investors entering the sector can combine our mining advice with market entry support and NIPC registration, and with joint venture structuring where they partner with Nigerian title holders.
