AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF LATERITE SOURCING IN IDAH, KOGI STATE

Abstract Laterite is a critical construction material in Nigeria, widely used for road works, block molding, and sub-base layers. In Idah, Kogi State, laterite sourcing through borrow pits has increased due to high demand in housing and infrastructure development. However, uncontrolled excavation has raised environmental concerns including deforestation, land degradation, flooding, farmland loss, and public health risks. This study assessed the environmental impacts of laterite sourcing in Idah with the aim of providing sustainable management strategies. A descriptive survey design was adopted, using physical observation and a structured checklist to collect data from active and abandoned borrow pits in Oko-Ikeke and Okuta-eleche communities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative interpretations. Findings revealed that laterite is sourced mainly from roadside and community borrow pits, often abandoned without rehabilitation. Environmental impacts observed included deforestation and biodiversity loss (100% of sites), gully erosion and farmland degradation (75%), flooding and stagnant water (75%), and public health hazards such as mosquito breeding (50%). Sustainable practices were largely absent, though limited examples of controlled excavation and informal reuse of pits were noted.The study concludes that laterite excavation in Idah, while indispensable for construction, poses severe environmental challenges when unregulated. It recommends strict enforcement of environmental regulations, mandatory site rehabilitation, adoption of alternative and stabilized materials, and stronger community involvement in monitoring excavation activities. These measures are essential to balance construction needs with environmental sustainability in Idah and similar communities in Nigeria.