The Federal Government has alleged that a mining company, Jupiter Ltd, is planning to discredit Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his upcoming visit to the United Kingdom.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development said the company is trying to spread false claims about Nigeria’s mining sector following the revocation of certain mineral licences.
Officials described these claims as misleading and intended to create a negative image of the government abroad.
In a statement, Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, said Nigeria has no legal or contractual ties with any company called Jupiter Lithium.
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He added that allegations of seizing a British lithium project under armed guard were completely false.
The controversy reportedly began after Basin Mining Ltd, linked to Australian businessman Steve Davis, failed to pay statutory annual fees totaling ₦2.494 billion for 2024 and 2025.
The government revoked the company’s mineral titles after due notice, in line with Nigeria’s mining laws.
The Ministry denied claims that the licences were reassigned to a Chinese firm, calling the reports fabricated. It also warned that some investors try to hold mining licences without actually operating, a practice the government says it is determined to stop.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to reforms aimed at making the mining sector more transparent and attractive to responsible investors.
Authorities said these reforms will not be reversed, even in the face of external campaigns.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to visit the United Kingdom from March 18 to 19, 2026, following an invitation from King Charles III.
The visit will focus on strengthening trade, investment, security, and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
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