From leo zwànke, lafia
The resurgence of mining activities in nasarawa state has become a double-edged sword for the women in its rural communities. While the industry has provided a source of income, it has also exposed these women to alarming levels of sexual and gender-based violence (sgbv).
“the industry that promises survival also harbors risks that are threatening our very existence,” says amina ibrahim, a community leader in one of the affected areas in toto local government area of nasarawa state.
Recent studies reveal that 23.1% of women in mining communities in nasarawa state have experienced sexual violence, a figure significantly higher than the 18.7% recorded in non-mining areas.
The higher rates of sgbv in these communities are attributed to weak regulatory frameworks, the dominance of men in the industry, and the prevalence of informal and illegal mining operations.
“these issues, combined with the lack of access to quality prevention and support services, have made our women vulnerable,” notes dr. Engr. Janet adeyemi, the national coordinator of women in mining in nigeria (wimin).
According to reports, wimin, a non-governmental organization dedicated to the advancement of women in nigeria’s mining sector, is at the forefront of tackling these issues. Recognized by the ministry of mines and steel development as a critical stakeholder.
Wimin has been active in 27 states with over 5,000 members. Their work is built on research, capacity building, advocacy, and campaigns aimed at promoting gender equity and protecting women and children from the adverse effects of artisanal mining.
“the environmental degradation caused by mining further exacerbates the issue,” says dr. Adeyemi “with traditional livelihoods like farming and water collection being disrupted, women are left with few options, often leading to exploitation and harassment.” the influx of male migrant workers, drawn by mining opportunities, has also intensified social disruptions in these communities, feeding into the patriarchal structures that perpetuate sgbv.
To address these challenges, she said wimin had launched a project aimed at training 150 community activists—including female miners, healthcare providers, and influential women—to raise awareness and respond to sgbv effectively.
“our goal is to empower these women to become champions of change in their communities,” adeyemi explains. The project also involves developing a reference protocol and strengthening referral pathways, ensuring survivors of sgbv receive the mental health, psychosocial, and economic support they need.
In addition to these measures, wimin advocates for the implementation of the revised guidelines for the production of community development agreements (cda, 2023) in the solid mineral sector.
“we need to create community-specific protocols for managing sgbv incidents, with active participation from local leaders and authorities,” says adeyemi. The organization is also pushing for improved community policing and security measures to protect women in mining areas.
The success of this initiative hinges on collaboration among various stakeholders. Wimin is working closely with local actors, mining companies, and legal organizations to advocate for pro-sgbv policies.
“by fostering partnerships, we can ensure that women’s safety concerns are addressed and that perpetrators of violence face the consequences of their actions,” igboanugo emphasizes.
Wimin’s efforts also extend to promoting gender equality through training and support for women and girls in leadership and entrepreneurship. “empowerment is key to breaking the cycle of violence,”.
By developing skill acquisition and educational opportunities for women in the mining sector, wimin aims to help them gain financial independence and reduce their vulnerability to sgbv.
The fight against sgbv in nasarawa state’s mining communities is far from over, but wimin’s initiatives offer a beacon of hope. By uniting efforts and advocating for systemic change, the organization believes it can create a safer, more inclusive environment where women can thrive without fear.
“it’s time for the industry to live up to its promise of providing livelihoods, not just for men, but for all members of the community,” adeyemi declares.
Miss deloraine dennis, programe manager wimin in a three days community dialogue programme in lafia nasarawa state capital emphasized the importance of taking the training to the grassroots. She noted that the mining community, which often experiences a significant increase in sgbv incidents, is where the need for such education is most critical.
She said most sexual and gender-based violence incidents occur in mining communities, which are predominantly grassroots, “women in these areas face a 22% increase in sgbv compared to other communities.” she added.
Mr. Yusuf dalhatu, state chairman of the miners association of nigeria, nasarawa state chapter, expressed his gratitude to wimin for organizing the training. He acknowledged that while this isn’t the first sgbv-related training in the state, the focus on grassroots women is both timely and essential, as they are among the most vulnerable in mining communities.
He urged the participants to pay close attention, as the knowledge gained would be beneficial at the mining sites.
Also speaking at the event, barrister justina allu, representing the commissioner of justice, labaran magaji, assured attendees that the ministry is committed to supporting efforts to combat sgbv within and outside the mining community.“the fight against sgbv is a collective responsibility,” allu stated.
The commissioner for women affairs and social development, represented by mrs. Patience sabo, desk officer for sgbv, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to addressing sgbv in the state. She noted that the rate of sgbv has significantly decreased due to ongoing sensitization efforts by wimin.
“this is the third time the organization has partnered with the ministry of women affairs for such training, and it has made a substantial impact,” sabo said. “women are now more equipped and knowledgeable about what to do if confronted with abuse in their various communities.”
