NIGERIAN MINERALS AND MINING ACT, 2007
Act · Environment
Policy date: 2007-01-01
An Act governs the exploration and management of Nigeria's solid minerals resources through a modern licensing framework. It targets mining companies, small-scale miners, and communities in mineral areas. The law aims to attract investment and ensure responsible resource use.
NIGERIAN MINERALS AND MINING ACT, 2007
What Is This Policy?
The principal legislation governing the exploration, extraction, and management of Nigeria's solid minerals resources, establishing the Mining Cadastre Office, Mine Environmental Compliance Department, and a modern licensing framework.
Who Does It Target?
Mining companies and exploration licence holders Artisanal and small-scale miners The Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) Communities in mineral-rich areas
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Modernise Nigeria's mining sector governance, attract investment in solid minerals, ensure responsible resource exploitation, and ensure mining communities benefit from mineral wealth.
Key Features
Licensing System: Establishes multiple licence categories: Exploration Licence, Small-Scale Mining Licence, Mining Lease, and Quarry Lease. Cadastre System: Creates the MCO and an electronic cadastral system for transparent, first-come-first-served licence allocation. Community Development: Mining companies must establish Community Development Agreements with host communities. Environmental Compliance: Mandates environmental impact assessment and reclamation bonds for all mining operations.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nationwide solid minerals sector Beneficiaries: Mining investors; mining communities; government revenue Funding: Private mining investment; royalties
How to Access
Apply for licences online at https://www.miningcadastre.gov.ng Provide environmental management plan with licence application Execute a Community Development Agreement before commencement Application method: Apply at Mining Cadastre Office: https://www.miningcadastre.gov.ng
Important Terms
Mining without a licence is illegal and minerals mined are forfeited Royalties are payable on all minerals extracted Environmental reclamation bonds must be maintained current throughout operations
Impact & Metrics
Nigeria's solid minerals sector is growing, with increased exploration activity following the NMMA 2007 reforms and the government's economic diversification push.
Official Resources
Website: https://www.minesandsteel.gov.ng Contact: Ministry of Mines and Steel Development / Mining Cadastre Office
Legal Framework
The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 is the primary legislation governing the solid minerals sector. It operates under Section 44(3) of the 1999 Constitution (Federal Government mineral resource ownership), the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992, and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act 2007. The EITI Standard, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Mineral Supply Chains provide international accountability frameworks.