Section 160: Geological Studies and Mapping.

(1) For the purpose of determination of the characteristics and undertaking of an inventory of mineral occurrences, the Minister may approve the conduct of geological studies and mapping of the national territory by specialized agencies of the Government, without obtaining a mineral title, on any land that is not closed by any other law, provided that if such activity is required to be conducted in an area subject to an Exploration Licence, a Mining Lease, a Small Scale Mining Lease or a Quarry Lease, a written notice of the proposed activity shall be given by the Minister to the mineral title holder.
(2) Educational institutions regulated under the laws of Nigeria may carry out similar studies of a scientific nature as provided in subsection (1) of this section without obtaining a mineral title on the same condition as specified for the Government in sub section (1) of this section.
(3) No agency or educational institution authorized to perform any activity described in subsections (1) or (2) of this section may be granted, directly or indirectly and for a period of five years, thereafter, a mineral title on any land where studies have been carried out.
(4) Where an agency of Government or an educational institution undertakes scientific studies authorized under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, compensation shall be paid by the agency or educational institution to the User or Occupier of that land or to the holder of mineral title to such land for any damage to the land or any property therein.
(5) The compensation payable pursuant to subsection (4) of this section may in default of an agreement be claimed and determined by arbitration and shall, in case of any disturbance or damage caused by any employee of Government or by staff or student of the educational institution, be payable by the Government or the educational institution as the case may be.