Thinking about starting a mining business in Nigeria?
Before you pick up a shovel or sign a mineral deal, you need the right license — and the Nigerian mining license process can be tricky if you don’t know where to start. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the correct process, help you avoid costly mistakes, and show you how we can help you get your mining license fast and legally.
Why You Need a Mining License in Nigeria
Operating a mining or mineral trading business in Nigeria without a valid license is illegal and risky. You could face:
- Regulatory sanctions
- Loss of investment
- Shutdown of your operation
- And possible jail term
To avoid this, you need to follow the approved licensing procedure issued by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), through the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO).
Types of Mining Licenses in Nigeria
Understanding your business model helps you select the right license:
- Reconnaissance Permit – Initial surface-level search for mineral presence.
- Exploration License (EL) – Geological exploration of mineral deposits.
- Small Scale Mining Lease (SSML) – For small-scale extraction operations.
- Mining Lease (ML) – For large-scale, commercial mining, especially for large companies.
- Quarry Lease (QL) – For extraction of building materials like granite or sand.
- Mineral Buying Center License / Export Permit – For licensed mineral trading.
✅ Step-by-Step Process for Acquiring a Mining License in Nigeria
Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Register Your Company
You must first register a limited liability company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Your business objectives must include mining or mineral trading.
Step 2: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN), Open a Corporate Bank Account & Get SCUML
Get your TIN from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), open a bank account, and register with EFCC’s Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) — a key compliance requirement for operating a corporate bank account.
Step 3: Identify a Site and Secure Community Consent
Carry out mineral surveys or use geological data to confirm the site has mineral potential. Then:
- Engage with landowners and host communities
- Obtain a signed Consent Letter granting you access to the land
Without community consent, your application will be rejected or revoked later.
Step 4: Apply Through the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO)
Submit your license application to the MCO. You’ll need to submit:
- Company documents
- Technical and financial capability
- Feasibility studies
- Site coordinates
- Community Consent Letter
- Other supporting documents
Step 5: Pay the Required Statutory Fees
Each license type has its own application, processing, and annual service fees. Payments must be made before your file is processed. (Take note that the official prescribed fee is not likely to successfully process the permit for you as there are requirements that need professional fees)
Step 6: Submit Your Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
An Environmental Impact Assessment report must be prepared and submitted. This is critical for environmental compliance and long-term sustainability.
Step 7: Await License Approval
Once your documents and EIA are reviewed, the MCO will process and issue your mining license if all conditions are met.
Step 8: Sign and Submit Community Development Agreement (CDA)
Before starting operations, you must negotiate and sign a Community Development Agreement with host communities. This ensures benefit-sharing and peaceful operations.
Then submit the CDA to the State Office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
Step 9: Obtain Final State Approval to Commence Operations
The State Ministry office will review your CDA and issue final approval, giving you the green light to commence mining activities.
⚠️ Avoid These Costly Mistakes
- Skipping the community engagement process
- Submitting incomplete or fake documents
- Ignoring SCUML and other compliance steps
- Applying for the wrong license type
💼 Let Us Handle the Process for You
We take the stress off your shoulders. Our team provides complete consulting and processing support for:
✅ Mining Company Registration
✅ TIN, SCUML & Bank Account Setup
✅ Community Negotiation and Consent Letters
✅ License Application (Exploration, ML, SSML, QL, etc.)
✅ EIA & CDA Support
✅ Post-license Compliance & Permits
🔍 Ready to Start Your Mining Business the Legal Way?
Let’s help you secure your mining license fast, legally, and without stress.
👉 Contact us now via WhatsApp | Call | to get started: +2348130799304
READ Also:
Need a Mining License or Mineral Trade Permit in Nigeria? Here’s How We Can Help
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