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

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 with ASM present a case study of Agwan Kade ASM located in Nassarawa state. In this study, field excursions were done in different mining area particularly at Agwan Kade. According to the data collected from semi-mechanized 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 hand, unsupported financially, and typically not formally recognized; are facing by a large aspect of challenges. These challenges are caused by the lacks of geology knowledge, financial support, government hand, etc. To solve these, and make artisanal and small-scale mining to become an official, organized and profitable activity that uses efficient technologies and is socially and environmentally responsible, there need a formalization of artisanal miners and a development in a context of good governance, transparency, legality, participation and respect for all partners.