Opportunity and Side Effects of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining in Nigeria

Abstract

Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining in Nigeria has been considered as an unorganized sector in mining industry because of its environmental implication and violations associated with the industry. However, this article tends to present the benefits of ASM alongside with the side effect and drawn a conclusion if ASM is an integral part in mining industry in case the government of Nigeria will provide them with the administrative and support necessary to facilitate their activities. The authors with the wide knowledge and experience wit h ASM present a case study of Agwan Kade ASM located in Nassaraw a state. In this study, field excursions w ere done in different mining area particularly at Agwan Kade. According to the data collected from semi-mec ha nized mining at Agwan Kade show that the artisanal and Small-scale mining which are mining done by a single miner or small businesses; mostly done by h and, unsupported financially, and typically not formally recognized; are facing by a large aspect of challenges. These challenges are caused by the lacks of geology kno wledge, financial support, government hand, etc. To solve these, and mak e artisanal and small-scale mining to become an official, or ganized and pro fitable activity that uses efficient technologies and is socially and environmentally responsible, there need a formalization of artisanal miners and a developm ent in a context of good governance, transparency, legality, participati on and respect for all partners.