How do I go About a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria? This means you want to start mining business in Nigeria ,getting a mining license in Nigeria, knowing the ministry in-charge of mining in Nigeria, and the duties of Nigeria mining cadastre office – www.miningcadastre.gov.ng.
Getting a mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria is simple. If getting a reconnaissance permit is your challenge this article is for you. Generally, if you are interested in mining exploration and extraction in Nigeria this article is also for you.
The reason is because you need this permit to search for the existence of the particular mineral you want before you ask for other licences. In this article I will let you know how to get a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria. Just read on.
How do I go About a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria?
Table of Contents
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In the first place do you know anything about the activities of the Mining Cadastre office that is located in Abuja. Ah! That is always the starting point. It’s this office you need most in this business. I will tell you about it now.
The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office:
The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office was established in 2007. The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 saddles it with the responsibility of Administration and Management of Mineral Titles in Nigeria in accordance with section 5 (1) of this Act. The Mining Cadastre Office shall in addition to any other functions prescribed by or under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, perform the following:
(a). “Consider applications for mineral titles and permits, issue, suspend and upon written approval of the Minister, revoke any mineral title.”
(b). “Receive and dispose of applications for the transfer, renewal, modification, relinquishment of mineral titles or extension of areas.”
(c). “Maintain a chronological record of all applications for mineral titles in a Priority Register which is to be specifically used to ascertain the priority and registration of applications for exclusive rights or free areas.”
(d). “Maintain a general register which is to be used for all other types of applications where registration of the priority is not required.”
(e).” Undertake such other activities reasonably necessary for the purpose of carrying out its duties and responsibilities under the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act. 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011.”
Every activity of the Mining Cadastre office is dependent on these provisions. Let’s go ahead to consider matters relating to Mining Reconnaissance Permit.
How do I go About a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria
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Mining Cadatre Office Details:
Head Quarters: No 37 Lobito Crescent; Off Ademola Adetokunbo, Wuse II, Abuja Nigeria; Also @ Plot3162B, IBB Way, Maitama, Abuja
City/Town: Wuse
State: Abuja
L.G.A: Municipal
Location Phone:
Main Contact..
Telephone: +234 (0)816-410-1937
Website/URL Address: http://www.miningcadastre.gov.ng
The Reconnaissance Permit:
Section 47, 57 and 58 of Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011 State that the Mining Cadastre Office shall within 30 days of the receipt of application from any qualified applicant and upon the payment of the prescribed fees, grant and issue a Reconnaissance Permit to search for minerals.
The permit enables the holder to carry out reconnaissance on a non-exclusive basis. The holder of a Reconnaissance Permit is not to engage in drilling, excavation or other sub-surface techniques, and must conduct activities in an environmentally and socially responsible manner and compensate for any damage to crops or property in the course of prospecting. The permit is issued for one year and it is not transferable, but renewable annually.
How do I go About a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria?
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Who Qualifies to obtain this permit?
- An applicant must be a citizen of Nigeria with legal capacities and who has not been convicted of a criminal offence
- A body corporate duly incorporated under the Company and Allied Matters Act.
- A Mining Cooperative.
The implication here is that foreign individuals are not allowed to get this. However, their companies can get it.
The Reconnaissance Permit: Conditions applicable are:
- Duly completed application forms
- Description of the work area and the activities to be carried out
- Attestation of non conviction of criminal offences under the Act
- Receipt of payment of the processing fee
- Evidence of technical competence (section 54 of the NMMA, 2007)
- Evidence of financial capability (section 54 of the NMMA, 2007)
- Evidence of compensation of users of land for damages to the land and property.
Application Procedure:
- Obtain application form from Mining Cadastre office or download from their website
- Submit completed application form – 3 copies – along with the required documents and processing fees to MCO
- The submitted form will get an identification code, with date and time of submition for priority purpose.
- Amendments on the form must be completed within 5 working days, otherwise it will be rejected and fees paid forfeited.
- After registration, the MCO will plot the perimeter on the cadastral map
- If approved, the applicant will have 30 days to pay the Annual Service Fees and collect the licence
- Incomplete/wrongly completed applications shall be rejected and fees paid forfeited.
How do I go About a Mining Reconnaissance Permit in Nigeria?
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These are procedure matters and must be followed. Ensure you meet up with the requirement. A consultant can help you do all these.
1. All Fees and Payments must be by Certified Bank Draft(s) to the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) and non refundable.
2. The Assignment/Transfer fees shall not be less than the processing fee.
3. The fees are subject to review
I know you enjoyed this exposure. I have deliberately made it elaborate for your better understanding. If you still have challenges please do not hesitate to contact me. In fact I will help you process your licence, just let me know.
It will do you a great good if you keep in touch with this website for your regular business tips. I will handle all the mining licences/permits/leases one after the other. Therefore follow us on our Facebook and tweeter handle. If you send in your comments or questions you will be answered. Fill in our contact us by email platform for your business tips updates.
Deacon Anekperechi Nworgu, a seasoned economist who transitioned into a chartered accountant, auditor, tax practitioner, and business consultant, brings with him a wealth of industry expertise spanning over 37 years.
