The Political Economy of Illegal Mining in Nigeria The Case of Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State

Abstract

The paper examined the political economy of illegal mining in Nigeria with particular reference to Zamfara State. Illegal mining activity is a growing socio-economic challenge in Zamfara state especially in Bukkuyum Local Government Area. This activity has led to loss of ecosystems and increased poverty level especially among peasant farmers who depend solely on environmental resources for a living. Theoretically, it is anchored on Political Economy Theory while methodologically; the paper utilizes both primary and secondary methods of data collection. Primary method on one hand, involves generating data via Structured Questionnaire (SQ) administered to target respondents selected through multi-stage sampling procedure. 400 respondents formed the sample size determined through Yamani (1967) statistical formula for sample size determination. While the secondary method on the other hand entails that data were generated from books, journals and web-based materials among others. The paper revealed that illegal gold mining activities lead to increase in revenue generation of Bukkuyum Local Government Area thereby improving the living conditions of the people. The study concludes that illegal mining sector is seen in Bukkuyum local government to be one of the major economic ventures in which people who are unemployed engage in to generate income which they use to cater for themselves and their families. The study recommends among others, the establishment of Gold mining companies with modern equipment and technology most especially in places where illegal mining activities are taking place to avoid its negative public health outcomes and attendant environmental hazard.