By Abbas Nazil
The Nigerian Youth Biodiversity Network (NYBN) has called on the Federal Government to take decisive responsibility in addressing environmental degradation linked to artisanal gold mining in Kebbi and Zamfara states.
The group made the call in a statement issued on the sidelines of the sixth Conference of Parties (COP6) to the Minamata Convention on Mercury Pollution, stressing that Nigeria urgently needs effective national legislation to protect its ecosystems from the harmful effects of mercury and unregulated mining.
According to the statement, communities like Ngaski in Kebbi State, once dominated by farming, are now struggling with severe environmental changes due to artisanal gold mining.
The once fertile lands have become littered with open pits, crushed ore, and tailings, disrupting agriculture and biodiversity while exposing residents—especially youth—to toxic mercury.
Local voices, the network noted, reveal the dilemma between economic survival and environmental safety.
While mining remains a source of income, many miners acknowledge its hazards and demand safer, government-supported alternatives.
However, persistent insecurity and lack of trust in authorities continue to block interventions and formalization efforts.
The NYBN emphasized that unregulated mining fragments fragile habitats, erodes soil, pollutes waterways, and heightens health risks, particularly for children.
It called on the Nigerian government to implement comprehensive reforms under the Ministry of Solid Minerals’ National Gold Purchase Programme, outlaw mercury use, and enforce labour and environmental standards.
The network also urged Kebbi and Zamfara governments to provide healthcare and sustainable livelihood support for affected communities.
It added that the future of young Nigerians depends on transforming extractive practices into regenerative opportunities under the Minamata Convention’s global framework.