Mining host communities in Nigeria are facing severe neglect from both mining companies and the government, contravening laws designed for their protection. The ineffective implementation of Community Development Agreements has led to increased poverty, environmental degradation, and health issues. Artisanal mining, mostly unregulated, has exacerbated these problems, leaving communities without appropriate means of survival or basic amenities.
Numerous mining host communities in Nigeria are left neglected by both mining companies and the government, violating the 2007 Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act’s mandates for corporate social responsibility through Community Development Agreements (CDAs). Despite laws in place, rights advocates have highlighted that the CDA’s implementation is ineffective, leading to increased poverty and human rights abuses in these areas. During a recent workshop in Abuja by Global Rights Nigeria, it was revealed that over 90% of small-scale mining remains unregulated, costing Nigeria upwards of N9 billion annually due to illegal activities. Furthermore, unregulated artisanal mining has exacerbated environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges for host communities. Speakers underscored that such mining activities often lead to displacement, insecurity, and health issues, highlighting tragic incidents like the 2010 lead poisoning crisis in Zamfara State, where over 400 children died. Community leaders voiced concerns over the loss of agricultural livelihoods to mining operations, issues like banditry, and systemic marginalisation that prevents communities from benefiting from their resources. Conditions in these host communities are dire, with many individuals facing unemployment, access to water scarcity, and environmental destruction due to mining waste.
Mining is a significant sector in Nigeria, yet it has failed to benefit the communities that host these operations. The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 aimed to ensure that mining firms contribute to the development of local areas through Community Development Agreements. However, the enforcement of these agreements has been largely absent, leaving communities struggling with economic hardships and inadequate amenities. This lack of attention from authorities raises questions about governance and the prioritisation of environmental and social responsibilities by mining firms, ultimately affecting the health and livelihoods of the residents.
The neglect faced by mining host communities in Nigeria highlights a critical need for stronger enforcement of existing mining laws and meaningful corporate social responsibility. Without these measures, communities will continue to suffer adverse socio-economic impacts and environmental degradation. It is imperative for both mining firms and the government to collaborate in improving conditions for these communities to ensure their rights and livelihoods are protected.
Original Source: www.icirnigeria.org