Analysis of Mine Planning and Scheduling Practices at Coal Operations in Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Effective mine planning and scheduling are foundational to the viability of coal mining operations, yet planning practices at Nigerian coal mines have not been critically evaluated in the context of modern industry standards. This study analyses mine planning and production scheduling practices at coal mining operations in Enugu State, South East Nigeria, with reference to the Enugu Coal Corporation and three associated small-scale operations. Data were collected through structured interviews with mine managers, review of available mine plans and production records, and observation of planning processes over a six-month field engagement period. Assessment criteria were drawn from the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration's mine planning competency framework. Findings reveal that long-term mine plans are absent at all three small-scale operations and that the Enugu Coal Corporation's plan is outdated by over eight years. Short-term scheduling relies predominantly on experience-based decisions without quantitative optimisation tools. Reserve estimation is not updated on a periodic basis, creating uncertainty in production forecasting and investment planning. The study recommends the adoption of computerised mine planning software, specifically open-source packages accessible to resource-constrained operators, and the establishment of a minimum planning standard as a condition of mining licence issuance. Capacity building in mine planning for Nigerian engineers is also advocated. Keywords: mine planning, production scheduling, coal mining, Enugu State, mine management.