Abandoned Mine, Potential Home for the People: A Case Study of Jos Plateau Tin-Mining Region

Abstract

This paper seeks to examine the JPTMR (Jos Plateau Tin-Mining Region) as an abandoned mine that provides land for housing by examining the impact of the tin-mining activities due to the presence of heavy metals and radioactive substances and analyzing the level and availability of these substances and their effects on human health and the built environment within JPTMR. Utilizing secondary data, which map out 10 different locations in the region, the paper highlights the level of radioactive substances (X-ray, beta-ray and gamma-ray) and presence of heavy metals in the environment. The results show that there are traces of X-ray, beta-ray and gamma-ray as well as the heavy metals such as Pb, As, Cu, Cr and Ni which exceeded the international standards. This is particularly significant as people use the contaminated soils as building materials for their homes as well as for farming and food production. The inhabitants of the area are often without any knowledge about the perils of the contaminated soils, water as well as air which is serious long-term human catastrophe. Drawing from international experience, the paper argues that it is possible to develop housing in former tin-mining areas but requires careful remediation and engagement by the public and private sector.

Malignant Thyroid Lesions: A Histopathological Perspective

“…Additionally, papillary carcinoma has been reported to have a different aetio-pathology from follicular cancer with exposure to radiation being an important risk factor [22]. A study of our environment (the Nigeria Jos Plateau Tin-Mining Region) carried out on sample of soils from abandoned mines from different locations showed traces of X-ray, beta-ray and gamma-ray as well as the heavy metals (such as Pb, As, Cu, Cr and Ni) exceeding international standards [68]. This suggests that mining activities might be contributory to the risk of papillary carcinoma in our environment.…”

Assessment of Major Bridges Along Nasarawa, Plateau, Bauchi and Gombe State Highway, Northern Central, Nigeria

“…Nasarawa State is a major producer of cash crops like groundnut, yam, grains and potatoes; but it is known majorly for its tourist sites like Farin Ruwa Falls, and the Salt Village in Keana Local Government Area of the state. Plateau State is the most important mining area in Nigeria; its major exports being tin and columbite (Wapwera et al, 2015). Besides the popular Yankari Game Reserve being located in Bauchi State, the state is also known for agriculture and its mining products.…”

Evaluation of Heavy Metals' Concentration and Physicochemical Parameters of Groundwater Within Jos Metropolis of Plateau State, Nigeria

“…These metals include lead, cadmium, zinc, chromium, mercury, arsenic, silver, copper, iron, platinum, and manganese. Previous studies conducted on the Jos Plateau relating to heavy metals which include afuyai et al, (2020); Nyam and Ashano, (2017); Wapwera et al, (2015); Ogezi and Adiuku-Brown, (1987) were majorly in mined areas. For instance, Nyam and Ashano, (2017) determined heavy metal concentration in abandoned mine ponds and groundwater in some locations of the Jos Plateau.…”