MINING AND ITS ENVIROMENTAL IMPLICATIONS: A CASE STUDY OF IRON ORE MINING, ITAKPE KOGI STATE

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sequel to government identification of Solid Minerals as a supplementary source of national income, there has been a divergence from over dependence on petroleum resources and solid mineral exploitation has continued to receive increasing attention in Nigeria. The study which seeks to ascertain the mining activities and their antecedents implications on the environment covers the Itakpe Iron Ore Mining Project located at kilometer 15 along Lokoja - Okene road in Kogi State. Questionnaires were given out in the area to study the extent of the damage on the environment and the response given by the residents of the area was used. The study ~valuates the adverse effects of mining on the environment and proffers possible recollunendations which will help minimize these effects and avoid them reoccurring on other parts of the country where such activity may be carried out.