By Emmanuel Ntekim
Residents of Unyenge, a coastal community in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have raised alarm over unchecked black sand mining activities that threaten their environment, livelihoods, and future.
Already weary from decades of environmental degradation caused by oil exploration, the community fears that the large-scale commercial extraction of its black sand deposits will trigger severe coastal erosion, flooding, the destruction of vital mangrove forests, and the collapse of their traditional fishing economy.
Community leaders allege that a Chinese-owned firm, Shimao Mining Investment Nigeria Limited, commenced excavation without transparent engagement with residents or a clearly defined Community Development Agreement (CDA).
They claim that heavy earth-moving equipment has already scarred large portions of land and blocked natural waterways, heightening concerns about an impending environmental disaster.
“We do not know the terms under which this company is operating or what benefits will come to our people,” said community chief, Mr. Asuquo Ekong. “If an environmental disaster occurs, the company may simply pack up and leave, while we are left to bear the consequences.”
Residents are also questioning the legality of the operation, pointing to the lack of transparent access to mining sites, which are reportedly under the strict control of private security personnel.
They are calling for full disclosure regarding the company’s mining licenses and environmental impact assessments.
For a community already struggling with poor road infrastructure, a lack of electricity, limited potable water, and minimal social amenities, many residents view this project as yet another instance of resource exploitation without corresponding local development
When reached for comment, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Nsikak Ekong, stated that the ministry was previously unaware of the company’s operations.
However, he assured the public that government officials would visit the site immediately to investigate the allegations.
Environmental experts warn that unregulated black sand mining can cause irreversible damage by accelerating coastal erosion, destroying delicate mangrove ecosystems, and polluting the waterways upon which fishing communities depend for survival.
As tensions mount, residents are urging both the Federal and Akwa Ibom State Governments to intervene. They are calling for an immediate investigation into the mining activities, a verification of the company’s legal status, and the enforcement of strict environmental regulations to prevent further damage to their homeland.
