This is the Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease – applicable here too is
getting a mining license in Nigeria, how to start mining business in Nigeria, duties and functions of Nigeria mining cadastre office.
In addition are how to start a mining exploration company and how to start a gold mining company in Nigeria. I promise you that these are simple processes which this write up offers you. The write-up is in two sections – general information and specific information on the subject matter.
Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease
Table of Contents
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General Information:
The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office:
The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office has the following duties and functions to perform. As is contained in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act. 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011
Just follow the details so that you will know where and how you will be helped. The Mining Cadastre office will –
- Consider applications for mineral titles and permits, issue, suspend.
- Consider upon written approval of the Minister, revoke any mineral title.
- Receive and dispose of applications for the transfer, renewal, modification, relinquishment of mineral titles or extension of areas.
- 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.
- Maintain a general register which is to be used for all other types of applications where registration of the priority is not required.
- 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.
Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease
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Mining Cadastre 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
Before we continue do a checklist of what you now know about mining business in Nigeria. The next stage is specific. I’ll be deliberating on the Small Scale mining Leas which is what you specifically need.
Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease
Specific Information:
Small Scale Mining Lease
Section 49 of Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011 reveals –
- The Mining Cadastre Office, on receipt of a valid application, shall grant and issue a Small Scale Mining Lease (SSML) within 45 days.
- An SSML shall not be granted in respect of any area with an exploration licence, mining lease or quarry lease to any person except the holder of an exploration licence, quarry lease or mining lease covering the area.
- The duration of an SSML is five (5) years and is renewable for further periods of five years provided that the minimum work obligations have been fulfilled.
- The area of land for an SSML shall not exceed 3Km2.
- When the level of operations of a Small Scale Mining Lease exceeds any of the criteria established in definition of SSML, the holder shall convert such a lease into a mining lease by submitting a written application to the MCO
Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease
Have you noted these facts? Now let’s look at what processes and documents you require to get fully registered.
- Documents and Procedures:
- You must meet these pre-grant conditions:
- Duly completed application forms
- Pre-Feasibility Report (with COMEG seal & signature)
- Evidence of Financial capabilities – (section 54 of the NMMA)
- Evidence Technical competence Person(s) (Section 54 of the NMMA, 2007)
- Irrevocable Consent from land owner(s)/land Occupier(s)-(section 100 of the NMMA, 2007)
- Attestation of no conviction of criminal offence under the Act (section 53 of the NMMA, 2007)
- Certified True Copy of Certificate of Incorporation
- Evidence of payment of processing fees
- Indicate Minerals to be Exploited
- Area specified to be surveyed in accordance with Coordination Act (section 79 of the NMMA, 2007) (Survey plan to be submitted)
- Notice to land owner(s) (private or state land) with a response on rate to be paid (section 102 of the NMMA).
- Indicate Mineral(s) to be exploited (section 64 of the NMMA, 2007)
After all of the above, you have also to meet the following pre-development conditions
Simplified Procedure for Obtaining Small Scale Mining Lease
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- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)- (section 119)
- Community Development Agreement (CDA)-(section 116)
- Compensation-(section 107)
- Submit Mine closure plan/rehabilitation plan – (section 61)
- Reports from state bodies/MIREMCO
These are procedural matters and must be followed. Ensure you meet up with the requirement. A consultant can help you do all these.
Important Notices:
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
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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.
