The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has revealed that he has increased his personal security following several death threats from individuals whose mining licences were revoked.
Alake, in a statement on Sunday, through his spokesperson, Segun Tomori, said the threats came after the federal government intensified reforms in the solid minerals sector, aimed at restoring order and accountability.
The minister explained that despite the intimidation and threats, he remains committed to enforcing mining regulations and sanitizing the sector.
Advertisement
“Our desire for a very conducive operating environment should not indulge those who are in constant default of the regulations. We won’t tolerate that,” he said.
He disclosed that he has had to take extra security measures to ensure his safety but noted that the threats would not deter him from carrying out his duties.
“I have had to triple my personal security following threats received from some of those whose licences were revoked, but I am undaunted.
“Our confidence is hinged on the fact that we are waging the battle based on principle, for the sake of our country,” Alake stated.
Alake also highlighted the progress made under the current reforms, noting that improved regulations have strengthened the mining industry and restored confidence in the sector.
He added that the reforms have boosted the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from less than 0.5 percent to 1.8 percent, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics for the second quarter of 2025.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining transparency and enforcing compliance in the mining sector, regardless of resistance.
