GEOPHYSICAL ANALYSIS OF MINING-INDUCED SEISMICITY ASSOCIATED WITH ARTISANAL TIN MINING IN JOS PLATEAU AND GOLD MINING IN ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The research investigated the geophysical properties and effects of mining-induced seismicity linked to artisanal mining operations in the Jos Plateau and Zamfara State. The objectives are to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of seismic events in relation to active artisanal mining sites in Jos Plateau and Zamfara State, compare the seismic characteristics associated with tin mining in Jos Plateau and gold mining in Zamfara State and examine the environmental and socio-economic impacts of mining-induced seismicity on communities surrounding the study areas. The study adopted a quantitative geophysical research design. The study relies on both primary and secondary data sources. The instruments for data collecting are GPS mapping, questionnaires, and interview guides. Sampling approaches utilised spatial data gathered via GPS readings of mining sites to determine their precise positions and facilitate spatial linkage with seismic events. Data from questionnaires and interviews are gathered using structured instruments delivered to inhabitants. Data analysis was carried out using Geographic Information System software and the frequency distribution of seismic events over time. The analysis confirms that seismic events in the study areas are spatially concentrated around mining zones, temporally associated with periods of increased mining activity, and vary in characteristics depending on geological and operational conditions. The study recommended that the Federal government of Nigeria should establish a permanent seismic monitoring station in major artisanal mining regions, particularly in Jos Plateau and Zamfara State, to enable real-time detection and recording of seismic events.