The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has revealed that several foreign nationals arrested over illegal mining activities, some allegedly tied to terrorism-related concerns, have been transferred to the Office of the National Security Adviser for further investigation.
Alake made this known on Friday during a media interaction in Abuja, responding to questions about allegations raised by some United States lawmakers linking illegal Chinese mining operations to the financing of terrorism in Nigeria.
He explained that although the exact number of foreign suspects handed over to security authorities was not disclosed, enforcement operations have led to the arrest of more than 327 individuals, including foreigners, involved in illegal mining activities across the country. Out of these, about 142 suspects are currently being prosecuted, while around 3,000 mining licences have been withdrawn.
The minister also stated that revenues from the solid minerals sector have risen significantly, growing from ₦6 billion in 2023 to over ₦70 billion by December 2025, attributing the improvement to ongoing reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He added that the government’s actions reflect a broader effort to reposition the mining sector, strengthen regulation, and eliminate corruption and illegal exploitation of mineral resources.
Alake urged stakeholders in the industry to adopt a more responsible mindset and embrace ethical practices to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
He also referenced President Tinubu’s earlier warning on illegal resource extraction in West Africa, noting that mineral theft poses a serious threat to regional stability and should be treated as an international crime.
