Evaluation of Land Reclamation Practices at Abandoned Tin Mine Sites in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

Decades of tin mining on the Jos Plateau have left extensive areas of disturbed land characterised by mine tailings, overburden dumps, and flooded pits, many of which remain unreclaimed. This study evaluates the current state and effectiveness of land reclamation practices at selected abandoned tin mine sites in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A field assessment methodology was employed, combining topographic surveys, soil physicochemical analysis, and vegetation assessment across five derelict mine sites. Stakeholder interviews with community leaders, local farmers, and environmental officers were also conducted. Findings reveal that spontaneous revegetation has occurred on portions of older tailings but remains limited by high acidity, low nitrogen and phosphorus content, and elevated heavy metal concentrations. Formal reclamation activities, where attempted, have achieved modest success in surface stabilisation but have not restored productive land use capability. The study documents the specific soil amendment requirements and suitable pioneer plant species for different tailings types. Cost-benefit analysis of phytoremediation versus mechanical reclamation is presented. Recommendations include a mandatory post-mining land rehabilitation bond for future mining licences and the establishment of a Plateau State Mine Reclamation Fund. This research provides a critical evidence base for reclamation planning and regulatory reform in Nigeria's mining sector. Keywords: land reclamation, tin mining, Plateau State, mine rehabilitation, tailings.