Nigeria has several states rich in gold deposits, primarily in the northern and western regions. Below are the major gold-producing states:
Top Gold-Producing States in Nigeria
- Zamfara State – One of the leading gold-producing states in Nigeria. Artisanal and small-scale miners operate in areas like Maru, Anka, and Bukkuyum.
- Kebbi State – Significant deposits have been discovered in areas like Yauri and Argungu.
- Niger State – Known for its rich gold reserves, especially in locations like Minna, Suleja, and Gurara.
- Osun State – Home to the Segilola Gold Mine, Nigeria’s first and largest industrial gold mine, located in Ilesa.
- Kaduna State – Contains considerable gold deposits, particularly in Birnin Gwari and other parts of southern Kaduna.
- Katsina State – Features gold deposits, though mining activities are not as extensive as in other northern states.
- Bauchi State – Contains some gold resources, particularly in Toro and surrounding areas.
- Kogi State – Reports indicate gold deposits in areas like Okene and Lokoja.
- Plateau State – Known for tin mining, but also has some gold reserves in its mineral-rich landscape.
- Osun, Oyo, and Ekiti States – These southwestern states have pockets of gold deposits, particularly in forested and hilly regions.
Mining and Regulation
The Nigerian government is actively working to formalize gold mining, with the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development collaborating with private investors to boost production and reduce illegal mining activities.
