“Ankpa Coal Mining: The Curse and Call for Responsible Management”
Ankpa, a town located in the eastern region of Kogi state, Nigeria, is renowned for its abundant coal reserves. However, rather than serving as a boon, this valuable resource has become a bane due to excessive exploitation and primitive extraction techniques, resulting in economic stagnation, environmental deterioration, and social unrest.
The phenomenon of the resource curse has had a detrimental impact on Ankpa, where regions rich in resources suffer from economic stagnation and environmental degradation. Despite the presence of extensive coal deposits, the town has not experienced significant economic development. Additionally, the extraction process has led to deforestation, water and air pollution, soil erosion, and health issues among the local populace.
The influx of migrant labourers has placed additional strain on the town’s limited infrastructure and public services, contributing to social tensions and a decline in overall quality of life. In combination with the absence of corporate social responsibility by mining companies, this has resulted in the marginalization of the local population and perpetuated poverty.
The lack of community development despite the substantial revenue generated from coal mining necessitates the incoming administration to focus on devising policies to oversee mining operations and ensure the prudent utilization of revenue. Special committees should be established to enforce sustainable mining practices, ensure equitable royalty payments, and promote corporate social responsibility.
There is a pressing need to rehabilitate degraded roads to prevent further accidents, such as the tragic incident involving a pregnant woman and her husband. The government, mining companies, and local communities must collaborate to mitigate the adverse effects of coal mining and ensure that the wealth generated from this resource is directed towards comprehensive development.
Ankpa serves as a cautionary example, highlighting the importance of responsible and sustainable resource management. Only through meticulous planning, regulation, and investment in alternative sectors can the town break free from the resource curse and pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Yours sincerely,
Habib Yakub
Abuja
