Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 (NMMA 2007)

What Is This Policy?

The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 is the primary legislation governing solid mineral exploration, development, processing, and export in Nigeria — establishing the legal framework for mining titles, environmental obligations, host community rights, and the regulatory architecture of the entire solid minerals sector.

Who Does It Target?

All mining title applicants and holders — from multinational companies to artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) Mining communities, landowners, and host state governments in solid mineral-producing areas Regulatory bodies: Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MMSD), Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), Mines Inspectorate Department (MID) Investors, joint venture partners, and financial institutions financing mining operations

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Vest all mineral resources in Nigeria in the Federal Government and provide a transparent system for commercial mineral exploitation Attract private investment into solid minerals by creating a clear, secure, and internationally competitive licensing regime Protect the rights and interests of host mining communities, including rights to compensation and information Regulate environmental standards and ensure mine closure and land rehabilitation obligations are legally enforceable

Key Features

Seven Mineral Titles: Reconnaissance Permit, Exploration Licence, Small-Scale Mining Licence, Mining Lease, Quarry Lease, Water Use Permit, and Mineral Trading Licence Centralised MCO Register: The Mining Cadastre Office maintains a public register of all mineral title applications, grants, and transfers — ensuring transparency and anti-overlap protections Host Community Rights: Landowners and host communities entitled to compensation for surface rights interference; right to information on mineral activities in their area State Mineral Resources Committees (MIREMCOs): State-level committees provide sub-national oversight and a platform for host community representation Environmental Compliance: All mining title holders must obtain FMOE-approved EIAs and submit mine closure plans before commencement of operations Artisanal Mining Legalisation: Establishes a dedicated Small-Scale Mining Licence for artisanal miners — bringing ASMs into the formal regulatory framework

Current Status

The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 is in force as the primary legislation governing solid mineral exploration and mining in Nigeria.

Legal Framework

The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 is the primary legislation governing the solid minerals sector. It operates alongside the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office Regulations 2011, the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992, and the Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions) Act. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Second Schedule — Exclusive Legislative List) vests mineral resources in the Federal Government. The National Metallurgical Development Centre Act provides additional institutional support.