Section 17: Interpretation.

(1) In this Act unless the context otherwise requires-
"export" means export from Nigeria or any part thereof;
"master" means the person in charge or command of any vessel except a pilot;
"Minister" means the Minister of the Government of the Federation responsible for minerals;
"Northern States" means all the States in that part of Nigeria formerly known as the Northern Region;
"smelter" means person who carries on the business of smelting tin ore whether or not as part of any other business carried on by him;
"vessel" means any ship, boat, canoe or any other kind of craft.
(2) "To export from the Northern States" means to transfer or to cause to be transferred from the Northern States.