This policy brief provides a detailed examination of the realities surrounding solid mineral mining in Taraba State, Nigeria—a region richly endowed with a wide range of mineral resources such as bauxite, limestone, kaolin, gemstones, and lead-zinc. Despite this wealth, mining operations in the state are marred by weak regulation, informal exploitation, environmental degradation, and minimal community benefit.

Conducted by Centre LSD with support from OSIWA, the report highlights critical issues including poor implementation of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act, the absence of Community Development Agreements (CDAs), and the exclusion of civil society from regulatory bodies like MIREMCO. Artisanal miners operate under unsafe conditions, environmental protections are weakly enforced, and revenue from mining is lost through untracked, informal transactions.

The brief introduces 20 key principles under the #DoMiningRight campaign, targeting reforms across government, mining companies, civil society, and communities. It advocates for improved transparency, stronger environmental safeguards, inclusive governance structures, and capacity-building for artisanal miners and community stakeholders.

A standout recommendation is the creation of a dedicated Ministry for Solid Minerals in Taraba State and the formal recognition of community voices in all aspects of mining governance. The publication also calls for periodic reviews of CDAs, enforcement of mine reclamation obligations, and federal-state collaboration in revenue tracking and policy alignment.

This brief is an essential tool for policy reformers, civil society actors, investors, and development partners aiming to transform Nigeria’s extractive sector into a model of environmental sustainability, equity, and inclusive growth.