EFFECTS OF COAL MINING IN MAIGANGA VILLAGE, AKKO LGA, GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the environmental and socio-economic impacts of coal mining activities in Maiganga Village, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State. A multistage sampling technique was employed in selecting 89 households located within 5–10 km of the mining site. In addition, 10 key informants, including community leaders, environmental officers, health personnel, and mining staff, were purposively selected. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and environmental observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and mean scores, while qualitative responses were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The study revealed that coal mining activities in Maiganga Village have caused significant environmental degradation, as indicated by the loss of natural vegetation and trees (82.1%; x̄ = 4.16), alteration of landforms and topography (80.9%; x̄ = 4.12), and persistent dust and noise pollution (83.1%; x̄ = 4.20). The study further showed that coal mining has negatively affected soil quality and agricultural productivity through declining soil fertility (x̄ = 4.09), reduced crop yields (x̄ = 3.99), and loss of farmland to mining pits and waste dumps (x̄ = 3.73). In addition, respondents reported deterioration in water quality, evidenced by mine runoff entering nearby water bodies (x̄ = 4.03), changes in the colour and taste of stream water (x̄ = 4.00), and concerns over the safety of groundwater for drinking (x̄ = 3.94). The results also indicated that air quality has deteriorated due to the high prevalence of dust during mining and coal transportation (x̄ = 4.15), dust deposition on household surfaces (x̄ = 4.04), and increased occurrence of coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness among residents (x̄ = 3.86). Furthermore, environmental management and regulatory practices were found to be inadequate, as reflected in weak dust suppression measures (x̄ = 2.88), poor land reclamation efforts (x̄ = 2.75), and weak enforcement of environmental regulations (x̄ = 2.67). The study concluded that coal mining has negatively affected the environment, health, and livelihoods of residents in Maiganga Village. In view of the above the study recommended strict environmental monitoring, effective pollution control measures, land reclamation, and greater community involvement in environmental management.