SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE INFORMAL AND FORMAL GOVERNANCE ARRANGEMENTS ON MINING COMMUNITIES IN TARABA STATE

Abstract

This paper examines the socioeconomic and environmental consequences of formal and informal governance arrangements on mining activities in Taraba State, Nigeria. Mining in the region is characterized by a complex interplay between formal institutional frameworks and informal, community-based practices. Formal governance, which includes state regulations and policies, is often challenged by the pervasive influence of informal governance structures such as local power relations, customary laws, and informal networks of miners. These governance arrangements shape the trajectory of mining activities, influencing both socioeconomic outcomes and environmental sustainability. The paper adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data on mining revenues, employment, and environmental degradation with qualitative data obtained through interviews and questionnaires to capture the local dynamics of governance. The findings reveal that informal governance structures, while sometimes more effective in enforcing local norms, frequently prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability. This results in environmental degradation, resource depletion, and the marginalization of vulnerable communities. Socioeconomically, the findings indicate that mining contributes to local economic growth by providing livelihoods and supporting infrastructure development; however, it also exacerbates inequality and creates dependence on a volatile sector. The environmental consequences include deforestation, water contamination, and soil erosion, which remain largely unmitigated under existing governance mechanisms. The paper therefore recommends the strict enforcement of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations by the Taraba State Government to mitigate the adverse environmental consequences of mining on host communities within the state.