Harnessing Local Mining of Mineral Resources: A Panacea for Socioeconomic Growth in Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined how local mining of mineral resources can
contribute to the socioeconomic growth ofHong local government Area.
The specific objectives were to investigate the causes of local mining and
to determine its effects on socioeconomic growth. Questionnaires were
administered to 246 participants. While the data were analysed using
both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that
significant factors causing local mining in Hong include poverty,
unemployment, high dependency rate, low technology levels and poor
mining management. However, harnessing local mining can increase
individual income, create jobs, improve infrastructure and boost
government revenue in the study area. The study therefore recommended
effective law enforcement on mining activities for socioeconomic
development. It also suggested improving mining technologies for better
resource utilisation and encouraged women’s participation in mining
activities to support sustainable development.