The Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office has outlined a comprehensive roadmap to boost the nation's mining industry, with a focus on economic diversification, investment attraction, and sustainable resource management.

According to the Director-General of the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office, Engr. Simon Nkom, the sector has immense potential for growth, having been impacted by the discovery of oil in 1956 and nationalisation policies in 1972.

Nkom highlighted key milestones in Nigeria's mining history, including the establishment of the Nigerian Geological Survey in 1919 and the enactment of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act in 2007.

The 2016 roadmap, he noted, has 55 initiatives aimed at boosting mineral production and addressing challenges such as policy gaps and weak law enforcement.

The office has made significant progress, including the full digitisation of mining processes in 2025. Nkom also drew lessons from other countries, citing Ghana's cooperative model for artisanal miners as a potential solution for Nigeria.

By organising artisanal miners into cooperatives, the sector can become more formalised and productive.

Nkom stressed that implementing the roadmap's short, medium, and long-term targets is crucial for the sector to contribute to Nigeria's energy transition and economic growth.

With a well-planned strategy and effective implementation, Nigeria's mining sector can become a significant driver of economic development.