Six foreign nationals from Burkina Faso and the Niger Republic have been detained by the Zamfara State Police Command in relation to illicit mining and banditry in the region. This was revealed in Gusau on Wednesday by Mohammed Dalijan, the state commissioner of police, during the suspects’ parade at the Command Headquarters. He stated that
Legal Framework for Mining Operations in Nigeria
The main legislation controlling Nigeria’s mining industry is the Minerals and Mining Act (2007). In Nigeria, the law governs every facet of the exploration and extraction of solid minerals. Below are links to more significant laws that make up the mining industry’s regulatory framework. West Africa has for long been a destination of choice for
Gender Equality in the Mining Vision for Africa
Given that women make up just 6.8 percent of the mining workforce in Nigeria. Policies that promote gender equality and increase women’s participation in the field is highly important and welcomed by stakeholders. One of such policies is the Africa Mining Vision. Adopted by the African Union in 2009, the Africa Mining Vision (AMV) is
Restoration of Environmental Effects in Mining Regions
Given the challenges the industry faces in addressing the environmental effects of mining operations, environmental rehabilitation is a critical component of sustainable mining practices in Nigeria. Restoring ecosystems and guaranteeing the long-term sustainability of mined areas require effective restoration techniques. Significant environmental damage, such as soil erosion, deforestation, and water contamination, is frequently caused by
Challenges Undermining Nigeria’s Mining Sector
The Nigerian mining industry has several obstacles that prevent it from developing, despite the country’s abundant natural resources and potential for economic expansion. To realise the industry’s full potential, these issues must be resolved. Illegal mining is one of the main problems, as it has spread widely in many areas. Over 80% of the nation’s
How Mining Operations Impacts Miners’ Health in Nigeria
The WHO estimates that artisanal mining activities in Nigeria put about 1.5 million people at risk of mercury exposure. According to ILO estimates, there are 2.3 million occupational deaths worldwide each year, with mining being one of the riskiest industries. According to a NEITI (Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative) report, over 36% of Nigerian miners
A Breakdown of the Electronic Licensing System
The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) initiated an electronic licensing system with the objective of transforming the nation’s mining licence acquisition procedure. This project is a big step in the right direction towards improving the mining industry in Nigeria in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and transparency. The electronic licensing system makes it possible for candidates
Plateau State Government Warns Traditional Rulers
At the opening of a two-day consultative forum with critical stakeholders on emerging reforms in the Nigerian mining sector, the paramount ruler known as the Gbong Gwom Jos, Dah Jacob Gyang Buba, gave some warning on the illegal activities going on in the Plateau mining sector. Traditional rulers are charged with protecting the land, however
Global Economic Downturn’s Effect on Nigeria’s Mining Sector
Global economic growth is expected to fall to 2.6% in 2024, according to UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which is slightly higher than the 2.5% mark that is typically linked to a recession. This year’s growth is less below the pre-pandemic rate for the third year in a row, averaging 3.2% from 2015 to 2019.
Earth Tremors Pose No Real Threat NGSA Assures Abuja Residents
The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) has calmed citizens’ concerns about the earth tremors that were felt in Abuja, the country’s capital, and advised them not to worry. Olusegun Ige, the director general of the NGSA, stated that the agency has been keeping an eye on the tremors and has determined that they are mild