Abstract
Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) describes informal mining activities using low
technology or minimal machinery. The use of low-tech and minimal machinery characterises
the ASM industry in Nigeria. ASM sector in Nigeria, however, remains a potential source of
employment, a source of revenue for the Government, and contributes to the growth of the
nation’s economy. The Government has made several efforts to revamp the industry thus far;
however, the sector still has some weaknesses and challenges. This paper discusses the various
reforms in the mining industry that have been made in the sector. It discusses the health,
environmental, and gender impacts of the activities of ASM, the safer mining technologies,
standardisations related to mining technology, characteristics, and challenges of current
mining systems. It also addresses mercury exposure prevention using a formalisation
approach, among other things. The formalisation policy takes care of two significant
constraints: environmental consciousness through monitoring the Presidential Artisanal Gold
Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI) activities and the necessity to improve the sector to
attract more investors. The industry has opportunities to generate countless job opportunities
for Nigerian youth, thus contributing to poverty alleviation.