An Assessment of Illegal Solid Minerals Prospecting and Extraction and the Destruction of Archaeological Materials and sites in Nok Village and its Environs

Abstract

This paper examines the devastating impact of illegal solid minerals prospecting and exploitation on archaeological materials in Nok village and its surroundings, Northwestern Nigeria. Through collection of oral traditions, review of several relevant literatures and a detailed case study, this paper investigates how this activity of man has affected the preservation of the invaluable archaeological materials and sites associated with the ancient Nok civilization which is known for its terracotta sculptures or figurines in the study areas. It also discusses the general implications of this destruction in terms of heritage preservation and offers recommendations for mitigating such damage.