22 Dec 2016

FG Approves 13% Derivation for Solid Minerals Producing States


President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a revenue sharing formula for states with mineral resources to ensure development.
 
Kayode Fayemi
 
The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has assured states on 13 per cent derivation for mineral revenue following the approval by the Federal Executive Council, according to DailyTrust.
 
“We have got approval for the implementation of the constitutionally guaranteed 13 percent derivation for mineral revenue to states, similar to the derivation that oil-producing states currently enjoy from the federation accounts,” he said.
 
He stated this yesterday at a two-day capacity building workshop on Special Purpose Vehicles, SPVs for beneficial participation of state governments in mining, jointly organised by the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and the Sokoto State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources Development.
 
Fayemi said the ministry had begun some reforms in line with the recommendations of the ‘Roadmap for the Growth and Development of the Nigerian Mining Sector’ which he noted emphasised the need for collaboration between the federal government and the states as well as build stronger co-operative processes and structures.
 
“We have reviewed our approach to licensing with regards to state ownership. While in principle we cannot give state governments licenses as separate legal entities, companies in which the states have an ownership interest can bid for and receive licenses,” he stated.
 
The minister said they were working with governments and relevant ministries to formalise and manage artisans miners while also working with defence and security agencies to curb illegal mining in the country.
 
He added that the ministry had commenced the modalities for capacity building in community-based organisations and other community representatives, helping them participate in key decisions in mining operations and processes.

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