Nigeria’s Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI) has made significant strides in formalising the country’s gold mining sector. Launched four years ago by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, PAGMI has now successfully enrolled 11,547 artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs), marking a major advancement in integrating these miners into the legal and economic framework.
The Solid Mineral Development Fund (SMDF) established PAGMI to regulate artisanal gold mining. The initiative focuses on promoting responsible mining practices and environmental protection, while also addressing issues like rural poverty and illegal mining.
According to a report by The Guardian, Fatima Shinkafi, Executive Secretary of SMDF, highlighted PAGMI’s impact: “The formalisation of artisanal mining activities has enabled ASMs to access better equipment, training, financing, and market opportunities. This transition represents a move away from informal and hazardous practices to a more regulated and sustainable approach.”
PAGMI’s achievements are seen as a crucial step in curbing illegal mining, creating jobs, and diversifying Nigeria’s economy. The initiative has also attracted private-sector investment, contributing to economic growth and development.
The Nigerian government’s commitment to empowering ASMs through PAGMI reflects a broader effort to develop the mining industry and stimulate overall economic growth in the country.
