Dolomite Mining and Local Livelihood in some Selected Communities of Kwara and Oyo States, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effects of dolomite mining on the socio-economic livelihoods in some selected communities of Oreke, Babanloma, Isale Osin, Eleja, Igbeti, and Alagutan in Kwara and Oyo States, Nigeria. Although dolomite mining contributes to employment, income generation, infrastructure development, and industrial growth, it also creates environmental and socio-economic difficulties that threaten sustainable livelihoods. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihood Theory, the study adopted a survey design using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected by structured questionnaires administered to 384 respondents selected from study area with 372 retrieval, whereas qualitative data were obtained through Focus Group Discussions, In-Depth Interviews, Key Informant Interviews, non-participant observation, and secondary sources. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression, whereas qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings showed that dolomite mining significantly influences socio-economic livelihoods. Mining activities generated positive outcomes, including employment creation, increased household income, business expansion, market growth, infrastructure development, vocational opportunities, and boosted economic participation of women. However, adverse effects such as environmental degradation, declining agriculture productivity, worsening health conditions, social conflicts, displacement, insecurity, and inadequate corporate social responsibility were also identified. The study concludes that although dolomite mining stimulates rural economic development, its long-run sustainability depends on harmonising economic gains with environmental protection and social welfare. It recommends stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, livelihood diversification, vocational training, improved corporate social responsibility, and greater community participation in mining governance to boost sustainable development in host communities.