OPTIMIZING GOLD MINING OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF GEOLOGICAL, TECHNOLOGICAL, AND REGULATORY FACTORS AFFECTING MINING EFFICIENCY, PRODUCTIVITY, AND STRATEGIES FOR ELIMINATING ILLEGAL MINING ACTIVITIES

Abstract

This study examined the geological, technological, and regulatory factors influencing gold mining operations in Northern Nigeria, with the aim of optimizing mining efficiency and productivity and addressing illegal mining activities. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted, with data collected from 300 respondents comprising mining operators, artisanal miners, regulatory officials, and community stakeholders across selected states in Northern Nigeria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that geological factors such as ore accessibility and availability of geological data significantly influence mining efficiency and productivity. Technological factors, particularly the use of modern equipment and technical expertise, were found to have the strongest impact on mining performance. Regulatory factors also significantly influenced mining outcomes, with weak enforcement identified as a major driver of illegal mining activities. The regression analysis showed that the independent variables jointly explained a substantial proportion of the variation in mining efficiency and productivity. The study concludes that the challenges facing gold mining in Northern Nigeria are largely systemic, requiring integrated solutions that address geological, technological, and regulatory constraints. It recommends increased investment in geological surveys, adoption of modern technologies, strengthening of regulatory frameworks, and formalization of artisanal mining activities as key strategies for improving sector performance.