British Mining Policy in Jos Plateau ,Nigeria; An assessment 1900-1960

Abstract

The discovery of tin ore and production in Nigeria during the colonial rule provides another source of revenue for the post-
colonial government to tap for socio-economic growth and development of Nigeria. This paper examines the onerous
environmental effect of tin mining and production on the people of Jos Plateau State during the British colonial administration.
It discusses the colonial administrative policy on the exploration and production of Tin in Jos, particularly specific
laws and ordinances established to create an enabling environment for Tin Mining Companies. It argued that the
operations of British Mining Companies in Jos Plateau brought degradation and pollution of land in the producing local area.
For proper data analysis, this paper employed both primary and secondary sources. It further explained that despite the
activities of Tin Mining Companies in Jos city, most local people has experienced loss of farm land, degradation and poverty. It
concludes that there is urgent need for a re-direction of policy on Tin exploration and production by the Federal government
to forestall socio-economic growth of the Tin city and Nigeria at large. It recommends that until the above is put in place, only
then would the potentialities of tin mining would be achieved.