Abstract

Human rights have historically concerned governments, and the welfare of citizens. However, private organisations, businesses large and small, and perhaps especially the world’s great transnational organisations such as the mining sector are intrinsically involved in some of the human rights abuses in the business sector. The mining sector in Nigeria has contributed to the socio-economic development of the country at a great cost. The sector is bedevilled with human rights challenges, ranging from land rights issues to labour rights violations and environmental impacts on the host communities and other related adverse effects. This paper explores the concept of human rights due diligence (HRDD) within the context of mining activities in Nigeria, with the aim of identifying and addressing potential risks and impacts on human rights. The recommendations of the paper include the need for effective HRDD practices in order to avoid or mitigate adverse human rights impacts.