In Nigeria, the mining sector is governed by the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (2007). This Act repeals the Minerals and Mining Act, No. 34 of 1999 and enact the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.
According to Section 1 of the Act: “The entire property in and control of all mineral resources in, under or upon any land in Nigeria, and of all waters, water courses and river beds, shall be and is hereby vested in the Government of the Federation.”
The Act also outlines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including the Federal Government, state governments, local governments, and mining operators.
Plateau State, located in the north-central region of Nigeria, is a treasure trove of mineral resources. The state is blessed with an abundance of minerals, making it a hub for mining activities.
Plateau State is home to over 50 mineral deposits, including precious stones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. The state is also rich in industrial minerals like limestone, dolomite, and kaolin, which are used in the production of cement, ceramics, and other construction materials.
One of the most significant mineral deposits in Plateau State is tin. The state was once the largest producer of tin in Nigeria, with the Jos Plateau being the center of tin mining activities. Although the tin mining industry has declined in recent years, there are still significant deposits of tin ore in the state.
In addition to tin, Plateau State is also rich in other metallic minerals like lead, zinc, and copper. These minerals are found in various parts of the state, including the Jos Plateau, the Pankshin area, and the Langtang region.
The state is also home to significant deposits of gemstones, including tourmaline, aquamarine, and topaz. These gemstones are highly valued for their beauty and rarity, making them a significant source of revenue for the state.
The abundance of mineral resources in Plateau State has made it an attractive destination for mining companies and investors. However, the state government has also implemented measures to ensure that the mining activities are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
In recent years, the state government has established the Plateau State Minerals Development Agency to oversee the development of the mining sector. The agency is responsible for regulating mining activities, ensuring environmental sustainability, and promoting the interests of local communities.
Evolve Africa Initiative recently visited the Rahwol Chom community in Plateau State, Nigeria, to conduct a sensitization and awareness program on the importance of legal and responsible mining practices. The community, which is predominantly inhabited by indigenous people, has been engaged in artisanal mining activities for decades.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, we recognized the need to educate the community on the Nigerian laws and regulations governing mining activities. This is particularly important, as the community’s ancestral land is rich in mineral deposits, including tin, lead, and zinc.
As earlier stated , the mining sector is governed by the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (2007). Nevertheless, the Act also recognizes the rights of host communities to benefit from mining activities on their land. Section 116 of the Act states that “the holder of a mining lease shall pay to the host community a royalty of not less than 5% of the gross revenue generated from the mining operation.”
During the sensitization program, we educated the Rahwol Chom community on the importance of obtaining the necessary permits and licenses before engaging in mining activities. The community was also informed about their rights and responsibilities under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, including their entitlement to royalties and other benefits.
Furthermore, we emphasized the need for responsible and sustainable mining practices, which prioritize environmental protection and community development. The community was encouraged to adopt best practices in mining, such as proper waste disposal, rehabilitation of mined lands, and provision of social amenities.
By educating the community on their rights and responsibilities under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, the initiative is helping to ensure that the benefits of mining are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
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