Minister Seeks Peaceful Resolution To Mining Dispute In Osun
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake has called for a peaceful resolution to the dispute between Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke and Segilola Resources Operating Limited in Southern Nigeria.
Dr. Alake emphasised the need for a harmonious relationship between state governments and mining operators to attract investment and drive growth in Nigeria’s mining sector.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Segun Tomori.
During the mediation parley with Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and representatives from Segilola Resources Operating Limited at his office in Abuja, Nigeria, Dr. Alake said such conditions would lead to increased revenue and attract foreign direct investment.
The Minister stressed that solid minerals are crucial to the Nigerian government’s economic diversification agenda, therefore conflicting policies and strained relations between operators and State governments could jeopardise these efforts.
The Minister noted that “
“he said.
During the mediation meeting with Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and representatives from Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), I expressed my belief in nurturing a strong relationship between state governments and mining operators. That harmony is essential for… pic.twitter.com/om8soCqy33
— Dele Alake (@AlakeDele) March 25, 2025
Dr. Alake said the mediation efforts aim to resolve disputes and promote cooperation between stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s mining sector.
Governor Adeleke welcomed the Minister’s intervention, expressing the state’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in the state, while ensuring that ethical standards are upheld.
He reiterated the State government’s readiness to reach a compromise with the company to ensure smooth mining operations in Osun.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Mining and Mineral Resources, Prof. Lukman Jimoda, outlined the key issues at the heart of the dispute, including disputed tax claims (particularly Pay As You Earn, PAYE), the State’s shareholding in the company, environmental concerns, and the broader economic interests Osun should gain from Segilola’s operations.
After deliberations and the Minister’s mediation, both parties pledged to continue discussions to resolve any outstanding issues.
The resolution culminated in the presentation of the state’s shareholding certificate to Governor Adeleke by Segilola Resources Limited.
The meeting was attended by Governor Adeleke, Prof. Jimoda; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Olawale Rasheed, and other government officials.
Segilola was represented by MD/CEO, Segun Lawson; Country Director, Austin Menegbo; Non-Executive Directors Folorunsho Adeoye and Kayode Aderinokun.
At the peak of the dispute that led to the shutdown of Segilola Resources Operating Limited’s operations by the state government.
Dr. Alake formed a committee, headed by the Director of the Ministry’s Mines Inspectorate, Ganiyu Imam. This committee has submitted its findings, paving the way for a resolution.
Based on the committee’s report, the Minister convened a meeting to mediate the dispute, achieve a resolution, and bring the issue to an end
Mercy Chukwudiebere
