The Lingering Environmental Impact of Historical Tin Mining in Plateau State, Nigeria
In the past, Plateau State in Nigeria was a central location for tin mining, which has continued to have a lasting impact on the local communities. While the mining industry initially provided employment and income, it has ultimately led to adverse effects that persist to this day.
More than a century after the cessation of large-scale operations, small-scale, unauthorized mining activities have become widespread in the region, driven by individuals in need of financial support. The environmental disruptions caused by the historical mining operations have resulted in dramatic changes to the landscape and the destruction of farmland, greatly affecting the local residents’ means of livelihood. Furthermore, the long-term effects of tin mining have caused soil degradation, resulting in significant decreases in crop yields and a decline in soil fertility.
The looming threat of agricultural decline and food shortages puts the future of the inhabitants at risk, especially the Aten Indigenous people, who rely heavily on agriculture for sustenance. The impact of soil degradation has also led to a loss of biodiversity, further compounding the challenges faced by the region. Despite the grim situation, the government’s efforts to address the environmental issues have been inadequate, leaving many communities still struggling with the consequences of historical mining activities.
In the following section, we will explore the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the communities in Plateau State, as we analyze the various implications of the historical tin mining operations.
Please look forward to Part 2, where we will continue to delve into the environmental impacts of historical tin mining in Plateau State.
This report was made possible with the generous support of Internews’ Earth Journalism Network and was originally featured in the Nigerian Tribune on 12th May 2023.
