Assessing Environmental Impact of Solid Mineral Extraction in Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone hosts significant deposits of solid minerals including baryte, limestone, tantalite, and columbite whose extraction generates substantial environmental impacts that are inadequately monitored or mitigated under current regulatory arrangements. This study assesses the environmental impacts of artisanal and small-scale solid mineral extraction in three mining-active local government areas: Nasarawa Egon, Lafia, and Keffi, using field surveys, water and soil sampling, and community stakeholder engagement. Environmental impact indicators assessed included land disturbance extent, vegetation loss, water turbidity and heavy metal contamination in streams receiving mine drainage, dust and noise pollution at community monitoring points, and waste rock and tailings management conditions at active and abandoned mining sites. Results from 45 field sampling stations document mercury and cyanide residues from informal processing operations exceeding Nigerian Environmental Impact Assessment threshold levels at 64 percent of stream sampling stations in Nasarawa Egon LGA. Land disturbance from pit mining covers an estimated 3,800 hectares within the study area, with less than 10 percent showing any post-closure rehabilitation. Community health complaints including respiratory illness, skin conditions, and turbid water supply are directly attributed to mining operations by 82 percent of surveyed households. The study recommends mandatory environmental impact assessments for all extraction licences, establishment of a community environmental monitoring committee, and enforcement of abandoned mine rehabilitation bonds for licensed operators. Keywords: solid mineral extraction, environmental impact, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria, mining.