The Pitfalls of Illegal Mining in the Southwest Nigeria: Implications on Environmental, Economic, Security and Sustainable Peace

Abstract

Illegal mining is a growing challenge in Southwest Nigeria, threatening environmental sustainability, economic stability, and community security. This study examined the extent of illegal mining activities in the region and their far-reaching consequences. A qualitative–quantitative approach was employed, combining field reports, secondary data from government agencies, and interviews with community stakeholders to assess environmental degradation, economic losses, security risks, and the link to sustainable peace associated with unregulated mining. The findings revealed that uncontrolled extraction led to soil erosion, water pollution, deforestation, and the destruction of farmland, thereby undermining agricultural livelihoods. Economically, the state lost substantial revenue due to tax evasion and unrecorded mineral exports, while local communities experienced declining productivity and rising poverty. The security dimension was equally severe, as illegal mining sites became hotspots for violence, organized crime, and youth exploitation. Weak regulation, corruption, and inadequate monitoring mechanisms further compounded the problem. The study concluded that illegal mining posed interconnected threats to the environment, economy, and security of Southwest Nigeria. It recommended strengthening enforcement frameworks, promoting community participation in mineral governance, and adopting sustainable mining policies that balanced resource extraction with environmental protection, social stability, and sustainable peace.