Oluchi Chibuzor stresses the need for a deliberate effort to build mining models that consider long-term sustainability as part of operating logic, not as an afterthought
By all accounts, mining remains one of the most consequential economic activities on the African continent. From precious metals buried deep beneath Nigeria’s hills to vast cobalt deposits that power the global energy transition, the continent sits atop extraordinary mineral wealth. Yet with this abundance comes a responsibility—a responsibility that extends to the land, water, air, and perhaps most importantly, the communities surrounding every mine site.
In recent years, the discourse around responsible and sustainable mining has gained momentum, but practice often lags behind principle. Too many mining operations, particularly in emerging economies, are still synonymous with environmental degradation, community displacement, and opaque governance. That’s why it’s important to not only recognise the mines charting a different course—but to study them closely, so their lessons can inform a better standard for the industry.
In Osun State, Nigeria, the operations of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL) offer a compelling case study. As operators of the country’s first large-scale gold mine, Segilola has had to balance modern extraction techniques with a clear-eyed understanding of its environmental and social footprint. Their usage of compressed natural gas (CNG) generators as the main power supply helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% and is part of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL)’s broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy. The mine utilises seven 1.2 MW CNG generators, with five in operation and two as standby, to power the processing plant. While diesel generators are also used for construction and as backup power, CNG is the primary fuel source for the main power supply.
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