Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Environmental Defenders Network, EDEN, has sounded the alarm over Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, warning that the country faces a looming environmental and human crisis if unregulated mining activities continue.
This was the key resolution from EDEN’s inaugural Board and Staff Retreat, held in Benin City, where stakeholders analyzed the rising number of mine collapses, environmental degradation, and the exploitation of host communities.
EDEN Board Chair, Barr. Chima Williams, highlighted the spate of mining accidents in the last six months, including the Shiroro mine disaster in Niger State, which claimed 50 lives, and a pit collapse in Adamawa, which killed 30.
Williams further criticized the influx of foreign mining firms, particularly Chinese operators, accusing them of worsening insecurity, child labor, and environmental degradation in states like Zamfara, Nasarawa, and Plateau.
“These incidents are clear warnings that the push for revenue diversification through solid minerals extraction is inflicting fresh wounds on our communities. Their environment, livelihoods, and water sources are being destroyed while governments prioritize revenue over lives.
“The government must act decisively to protect these communities and hold violators accountable,” he said.
To address the crisis, EDEN called for stronger regulatory oversight and a more equitable distribution of mining revenues.
“Host communities should receive at least 10% of revenues from mining operations to ensure they benefit from the resources extracted from their lands,” he said.
On the growing problem of abandoned mining sites, Williams urged immediate action: “There must be an order for decommissioning all mining pits within one week of cessation of operations. Failure to comply should result in jail terms, confiscation of materials, and the loss of licenses.”
He also proposed a unified regulatory framework, particularly advocating for an amendment to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, NOSDRA Act to include solid minerals in its mandate, emphasizing the need for cohesive regulation.
“The Mining Marshals should work closely with the NSCDC and community monitors to ensure that operators comply with environmental and safety standards. Fragmented approaches will only worsen the problem.”
Williams stressed the importance of cracking down on illegal mining, describing it as a form of economic sabotage; while warning that failure to act could lead to widespread revolts in host communities.
“Those caught engaging in illegal mining should face a minimum of three years in prison and have their tools confiscated. Communities must also be protected from child labor and trafficking fueled by unregulated activities.
“The rights to life and a sustainable environment are being violated daily. If we don’t address these injustices now, Nigeria will repeat the mistakes of the Niger Delta on an even larger scale.”
