Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) has raised the alarm over the effect of mining activities on the environment in the Federal Capital Territory FCT as well as its economic, social and cultural implications on communities.
Speaking during a visit to the Ministry of Environment, CTA executive director, Faith Nwadishi said activities of mining companies poses health risks to communities if they are not checkmate.
She sought the collaboration of the Ministry in CTA’s quest to amplify the voices of the Original Inhabitants of Abuja demanding for best environmental practices by mining companies most especially the preservation of cultural sites and heritage.
According to the CTA boss, residents near areas with quarries and other mining activities in the FCT are living amid noise and dust pollution contaminating the environment.
“Pollution and other environmental issues associated with mining activities in the FCT has generated a lot of concern to not only the residents but particularly to the Original Inhabitants of the FCT,” she said.
She added that, “some community members have resorted to wearing face masks. The health challenge associated with the pollution as experienced everyday by these communities weakens not only economic activities but social and cultural activities of the communities.
“Sadly, the communities appear helpless as they do not seem to know who and where exactly to channel their complaints. Also, the mining companies appear inaccessible for complaints or remedy.”
Nwadishi said the CTA is committed to improved the level of responsiveness of government institutions and actors to address the injustices arising from extractive mining through advocacy for mining contract transparency.
It is also committed to see improved basic service delivery and accountability for the benefit of Original Inhabitant.
She said CTA is concerned if the extractive mining activities be carried out responsibly in such a manner that the environment is protected and if the mining companies can adhere to the mining best practices that do not jeopardize the people’s health.
She said preserving the environment and cultural values should be a concern for all of Nigerians.
In her words, “It is important that all stakeholders especially, the agencies of government saddled with the responsibility of protecting our environment and common heritage, take the lead in this regard.”
She informed the gathering that the CTA is  implementing a 2-year project on Promoting Cultural Values and Rights of Original Inhabitants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through Drama and Art Forms, with a grant from MacArthur Foundation through Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED).
