SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE MINING HOTSPOTS AND LAND USE IMPACTS IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the spatial distribution of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) operations and the corresponding land use impacts in selected locations across Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Using a combination of field surveys, satellite imagery, and ground truthing, six prominent ASM sites (Azara, Tof, Doka, Udege, Keana, and Mada Station) were mapped and analyzed for their mineral specialization, production output, and land use implications. Findings revealed a distinct spatial clustering pattern, with Azara and Keana emerging as major barite and copper zones, while Tof and Doka were predominantly gold-focused. Udege and Mada Station recorded lower activity levels, producing mainly tantalite and barite, respectively. Cumulative monthly production across all sites averaged approximately 16.8 tons, reflecting the economic relevance of ASM in the region despite its largely informal operational structure. Land use analysis indicated significant alterations in approximately 390 hectares of land, distributed among agricultural (46%), forested (36%), and residential (18%) areas. Agricultural lands were most affected, particularly around Doka and Keana, where farmland loss has directly undermined local food security. Forested areas near Azara and Mada Station exhibited severe fragmentation, threatening biodiversity and ecological stability, while residential zones near Udege and Tof experienced moderate displacement and infrastructure disruption. A chi-square test (χ² = 22.8, df = 2, p < 0.001) confirmed a statistically significant association between land use categories and their susceptibility to mining impacts, indicating that agricultural and forested lands are disproportionately burdened. The findings highlight the duality of ASM as both an economic lifeline and a driver of environmental degradation in Nasarawa State. Sustainable land management policies, stricter environmental regulation, and community-based monitoring are recommended to balance mineral exploitation with ecological and socio-economic resilience.