The federal government is finalizing plans aimed at direct reduction of excess emissions and release of mercury into the environment from Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities in the country.
The effort is spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, during an inception workshop organized at the weekend, in Abuja, to enhance the formalization of a mercury-free gold in Nigeria, revealed that they are collaborating together to forge a future where Nigeria's gold resources are harnessed responsibly, without compromising the health of the people or the integrity of the environment
Lawal, who was represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mahmud Kambari, said the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector represents a notable contributor to Nigeria's economy, and offers livelihoods to many, but, however worried that the sector presents a complex challenge due to the widespread use of mercury.
He decried that this has been identified as a potent neurotoxin with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.
He said: “Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can contaminate water sources and soil, leading to serious environmental and health problems. It can bioaccumulate in the food chain, leading to long-term health effects in humans and wildlife. In addition, mercury pollution can persist in the environment for decades, causing harm to ecosystems and biodiversity.”
Lawal disclosed that Nigeria, as a signatory to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, demonstrated its commitment by developing a National Action Plan (NAP) for the reduction and eventual elimination of mercury use in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Nigeria between 2017 and 2020.
The Minister said the present collaboration under the GEF GOLD+ Nigeria Project builds upon the foundation laid by the NAP and represents a significant step forward in their commitment to tackling mercury pollution in the ASGM sector. He further reiterated that the project aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s national environmental policies and its obligations under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, adding that its focus on a holistic, multi-sectoral approach, integrating formalization with the adoption of mercury-free technologies and access to traceable supply chains, offers a sustainable pathway for the sector's development.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, Engr. Faruk Yabo noted that Nigeria stands at the forefront of efforts to formalize the ASGM sector and reduce mercury use, in line with the Minamata Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Yabo revealed that the by this project initiative, Nigeria is not only joining the global community efforts, but is setting an example for other nations—demonstrating that economic development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
He said: “This project is designed to support policy reforms, strengthen institutional capacity, empower mining communities, and enhance access to finance for artisanal and small-scale miners. Improving financial inclusion is critical to enabling miners to invest in cleaner technologies, adopt safer practices, and transition toward formal and sustainable operations. By fostering partnerships across government, industry, and civil society, we aim to create an enabling environment where miners can thrive economically while safeguarding health and ecosystems.”
In a message at the event, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), said; “By this project initiative, Nigeria is not only joining the global community efforts, but is setting an example for other nations—demonstrating that economic development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.”
It noted that: “This project is designed to support policy reforms, strengthen institutional capacity, empower mining communities, and enhance access to finance for artisanal and small-scale miners. Improving financial inclusion is critical to enabling miners to invest in cleaner technologies, adopt safer practices, and transition toward formal and sustainable operations. By fostering partnerships across government, industry, and civil society, we aim to create an enabling environment where miners can thrive economically while safeguarding health and ecosystems.
“UNIDO is committed to partner with the Government of Nigeria in driving this important transformation. In line with our mandate, to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development, our commitment extends beyond the life of this project. We will continue to deliver technical expertise, facilitate knowledge exchange, and leverage international networks to attract resources and partnerships. Together, we aim to position Nigeria’s ASGM sector as a benchmark for sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation—contributing to economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being.”
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