This policy brief serves as a roadmap for stakeholders to engage in meaningful reforms that will transform the ASM sector into a robust contributor to Nigeria's economy, enhancing resource mobilization and fostering equitable growth.

Despite Africa's abundant mineral resources, many countries struggle to fully capitalize on these assets for sustainable development. Nigeria, renowned for its oil reserves, is also endowed with diverse mineral deposits across more than 500 locations in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). However, the mining sector remains underdeveloped. The Nigerian Mining Corporation, once a leading producer and exporter of solid minerals, saw a significant decline in production following the indigenization policy in the 1970s.