Dr Chinenye Onyeabor is a Lecturer in Environmental Geochemistry and Mineral Exploration at the Department of Geology and Mining, University of Science and Technology, Enugu. In this interview with ERNEST NZOR, Onyebor explores the impact of artisanal mining on Nigeria’s economy, environment, and healthcare.
What led to the rise of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) operations?
Mining in Nigeria has a long history, starting in the colonial era when mineral extraction expanded significantly. Mining activities have spread nationwide, documented in the official Mining Cadastral records. The socio-economic impact has been profound, affecting both large-scale and artisanal operations. Often, established mining companies did not integrate local populations, leading to indigenous communities taking over abandoned mining sites as a means of livelihood. For instance, in Niger State, mining companies abandoned sites due to insecurity, prompting locals to continue mining despite a ban. Traditional small-scale mining practices also predate commercial operations, as seen in Abakaliki’s galena mining for cosmetics before 1940.
These mining activities have transformed landscapes and economies but also introduced challenges like health risks, school dropouts, insecurity, and increased poverty. Understanding this history is essential for developing a balanced and sustainable approach to the mining sector.
What factors are considered when classifying mining activities as artisanal?
Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) operations often face inefficiencies such as outdated techniques, low recovery rates, and poor productivity. They lack social security, environmental consideration, and capital. ASM operators often struggle with legal knowledge, local cultural practices, and inadequate government support. In Niger State, for instance, miners self-identify as “unharmonised” rather than illegal, reflecting a complex relationship with formal mining regulations.
Based on your experience, what are the major challenges faced by ASM?
ASM operations face numerous challenges, including physical dangers like rock falls and inadequate ventilation. Accidents are frequent due to outdated equipment and unsafe practices. Financial struggles result in minimal income and neglected safety measures. The inefficiency in exploitation and processing leads to poor recovery rates and low productivity. Environmental and health issues, such as mercury exposure and pollution, are prevalent. Additionally, lack of legal knowledge and support exacerbates these issues, as does the disconnect between formal policies and the realities of ASM operators.
Given these challenges, do ASMs stand a chance of legalisation, economic improvement, and sustainability?
Despite challenges, ASM plays a crucial economic role, providing livelihoods for millions. For example, ASM contributed significantly to Zimbabwe’s gold production. Addressing the sector’s challenges and differentiating local ASM from illegal foreign operations is vital. Effective support and formalization can mitigate environmental degradation and enhance socio-economic benefits. International projects like MMSD, CASM, and the Minamata Convention focus on translating adverse impacts into economic benefits. However, sustainable development requires integrating ASM into mainstream mining with government support and proper regulations.
What are the current major environmental concerns in the sector?
Nigeria’s mining industry faces severe environmental challenges, including drainage issues, pit lakes, mercury and cyanide pollution, heavy metal poisoning, and river siltation. These concerns must be addressed to ensure the sustainability of mining operations.
What are the best mitigation and sustainability plans for ASMs?
Assistance to ASMs should focus on community development and mutual benefits. Effective strategies include: Establishing policies for poverty alleviation, a favourable business environment, and sustainability. Implementing transparent legal frameworks and ensuring political will. Encouraging cooperatives for accountability and fairness. Providing security, infrastructure, and social services to mining communities.
Offering capacity-building programs, affordable financing, and credit facilities. Developing a regulatory framework that balances environmental and socio-economic needs. Promoting collaborative efforts between government, ASM operators, and communities. Monitoring and evaluating interventions to guide policy decisions.
The introduction of advanced mining and processing plants and public-private ventures can enhance productivity and benefit communities. Proper management and investment in local processing facilities can reduce child labour and support development.
What are your proposals for effective environmental and mining policy formulation?
For sustainable development, it is essential to upgrade, legalise, and support ASMs to benefit all stakeholders. Upgrading their capacity and bringing processing facilities closer to mining communities will enhance social well-being and productivity. Prioritising the needs of local communities and integrating ASM into mainstream mining with effective policies will contribute to socio-economic growth and sustainability.
