The Ziva Community Initiative is calling for the adoption of digital technology and the integration of artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) into Nigeria’s mining framework to drive sustainable transformation in the sector. This appeal was made during a town hall meeting in Nasarawa on Thursday, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of mining in Nigeria.
Sunday Kpalo, a lecturer from the Faculty of Environmental Science at Nasarawa State University, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of digital technologies in modernizing mining practices. He stressed the need for a unified effort among stakeholders to ensure the mining industry’s sustainable development. Kpalo pointed out that Nasarawa State holds significant potential for mining energy transition minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite, all of which are essential for advancing renewable energy technologies.
His recommendations included developing a solid regulatory framework, conducting environmental and social impact assessments, building technical capacity, promoting community engagement, and encouraging responsible mining practices.
Ahmed Mohammed, who represented the traditional leader from Nasarawa Local Government Area, added that the government is more likely to support artisanal miners who secure the necessary mining licenses and obtain consent from landowners.
During the meeting, participants emphasized the crucial role that ASMs can play in Nigeria’s energy transition and efforts to mitigate climate change. They argued that by incorporating ASMs into the formal mining system, the industry could promote responsible practices and reduce the negative social and environmental impacts associated with informal mining operations.
The group also proposed the creation of mineral processing hubs to add value to the country’s mineral resources, reducing reliance on raw mineral exports and decreasing dependence on imported minerals. These hubs could foster economic development by boosting domestic processing capabilities.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of fostering industry collaborations. Stakeholders recognized that partnerships between miners, government agencies, and other entities would be vital to transforming the mining sector, ensuring that it contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable development.
The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Miners Association of Nasarawa State, and local leaders from Kokona and Nasarawa LGAs.
