Women in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria, took to the streets on Monday to raise alarms over the severe health dangers from unregulated mining activities in their communities. The protest, held by women from Gada Biyu and surrounding mining areas, highlighted the toll that irresponsible mining practices are taking on their health and environment.
Led by Matthias Ugonma, Executive Director of the Media Advocacy on Climate Change Initiative, the protest aimed to call attention to the urgent need for stronger regulation of mining operations. Represented by Jilima Bishari, Ugonma underscored the heavy health burden borne by women and children, who are most vulnerable to pollution and contamination from mining activities.
“The unchecked mining activities are causing untold suffering for our people, especially women and children,” Ugonma noted. Protesters detailed the alarming health consequences, including polluted water sources, respiratory issues from dust and rock blasting, and livestock harm that threatens food security. The women expressed a deep concern for the overall well-being of their communities, demanding that the government act decisively to protect residents.
The protest also spotlighted the exploitation of child labor in the mines, with women calling for an end to minors working under unsafe conditions. They appealed to the government for a sustainable approach that addresses both health and safety while ensuring responsible economic development.
Responding to the protest, Tukur Ibrahim, Director of Mines and Surveillance at the Federal Ministry of Mines in Bauchi, assured the women that an immediate assessment would be launched to address the health and environmental risks posed by unregulated mining.
In recent years, unregulated mining activities have introduced numerous health hazards in mining communities across the country, resulting in the poisoning of both humans and animals reason women in Bauchi State have mobilised to avert further dangers posed by irresponsible mining activities.