Equatorial Resources (ASX:EQX) said that the Nimba West and Nimba North iron ore permits, which make up its Nimba Alliance iron ore project in Guinea, were "identified as having been cancelled" by the government during a recent news broadcast featuring the country's minister of information and communication, according to a Wednesday Australian bourse filing.

It added that it had not received any formal communication from the government in relation to a change to the status of its exploration permits in the country. It is seeking clarification from the relevant authorities as to the status of its exploration permits in Guinea.

The firm said it has been actively engaged with the Ministry of Mines and relevant authorities in the country to support its renewal applications for the permits.