By Cecilia Attah
Solid mineral mining has emerged as a double-edged sword for local communities in the heart of Nigeria, where the earth is rich with untapped resources. While it promises economic development and job creation, the reality often paints a more complex picture.
During an interview with an Online media outfit, Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of the Renevlyn Development, emphasized that the expansion of mining often leads to the encroachment of land traditionally used by local communities which can lead to displacement and conflicts over land ownership and usage rights.
“Most mining companies are going beyond their areas designated for mining encroaching into communities and in a subtle way or sometimes forced displacing people.
“When you live in a community where every now and then there are rock blasting without notice, in the process of mining for instance, Limestone, the mining companies use dynamites to blow up rocks and then dig what they want, in some places, they give notice to the community but unfortunately what we have in our country, this is happening indiscriminately even without notice so you are in your house suddenly there Is this head shaking blast and then suddenly your building is cracking sometimes the rocks injure community members. Nobody needs to tell you that it’s time to leave that Community.” He explained.
He noted that there have also been claims that mining companies have engaged in land grabbing, displacing people from their homes and arable farm lands which he said may degenerate into deadly violence, breaking apart communities and weakening social cohesion.
Jakpor highlighted that mining operations are often presented as a solution to poverty, with the promise of creating jobs and building infrastructure. However, he cautioned that the perceived benefits can be short-lived. Once the minerals are extracted, communities may be left with depleted resources, minimal job prospects, and little to show for the supposed development.
“Mining of solid mineral is key to developing local economy in many jurisdictions, it is a considerable source of revenues, creating careers for tens of thousands. Miners and their families flood into empty spaces, which promote better service for everything from food vending to local transport. In places like Jos and Enugu, the mining industry has been able to foster economic development through providing opportunity for entrepreneurs and allowing households make decent earnings from the extraction sector. But then one cannot ignore the fact that solid precious mineral mining has an impact on the environment. The process by which these compounds are extracted often contributes to deforestation, soil degradation and water pollution. As the land and water sources are now contaminated, communities that depend on agriculture and fishing overall face brutal outcomes. Residents in regions such as the Niger Delta have noted large reductions in fish stocks and crop yields, affecting both food security and their access to employment.” He clarified.
On the implication of mining activities on health, the Executive Director of the Renevlyn Development highlighted that community members are exposed to dust, chemicals and heavy metals especially lead which can act as a trigger for various health problems like respiratory issues, this affects most children, which these locals are not aware of.
“I have been to Zamfara state where in 2009 and 2010 about 300 kids died from lead poison, one thing I came away from that visit was the fact that a lot of the local people are ignorant to the fact that this poison to kids. There are already reports of increased respiratory conditions and skin diseases in mining areas, prompting concerns over long-term health consequences.” He stressed.
Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development, acknowledged that while mining presents significant challenges, it also has the potential to contribute to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. He pointed out that some mining companies have implemented corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at promoting local development, including public programs in education and healthcare. If these services are delivered effectively, they could significantly improve the quality of life for local populations.
Jakpor also emphasized the growing awareness of sustainable mining practices, with advocacy groups pushing for policies that ensure local communities benefit directly from mining activities. He noted that programs focused on environmental restoration and the diversification of local economies could help reduce the negative effects of mining while building resilience in host communities.
However, Jakpor cautioned that the effects of solid mineral mining on communities are a complex blend of both positive and negative outcomes. While mining can drive economic growth and infrastructure development, it also leads to environmental degradation, health risks, and social conflicts that can severely impact community well-being.
He stressed the need for stakeholders—including governments, mining companies, and local communities—to engage in comprehensive discussions that promote sustainable practices and prioritize the health and welfare of host communities. Jakpor concluded by urging mining companies to adopt more responsible practices to ensure that the wealth generated from mining benefits the people who live in affected areas. Communities, he said, must advocate for their rights, protect their environment, and preserve their cultural heritage to ensure a balanced approach to development.
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