Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has visited Niger State to express condolences on behalf of the Federal government after a mine pit collapse in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area.
During the visit, Alake reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to enforcing insurance policies for mine workers in Nigeria.
In a press release by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Alake conveyed:
“I extend Mr. President’s condolences to the victims’ families, the injured, the entire community, and the government and people of Niger State regarding the mine pit collapse. It is a tragic and avoidable incident. Although caused by heavy downpour, we are committed to stricter monitoring of mining operations to ensure compliance with environmental standards.”
The Minister praised the state government for quickly mobilising emergency rescue operations in collaboration with federal agencies and stressed the importance of rescuing those still trapped.
To improve safety and provide relief to miners and their families in case of accidents, Dr. Alake announced the enforcement of insurance policies for miners nationwide. He emphasised that mining licenses must include remediation plans and that irresponsible mining practices endangering the environment and communities will no longer be tolerated.
“We must implement contingency plans to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on mining sites, such as making the installation of support pillars mandatory, a common practice in other countries,” he added.
Governor Umar Bago thanked President Tinubu for the condolence visit and stressed the need for joint efforts between the federal government and subnational entities to ensure mining companies comply with safety standards.
He advocated for strengthened collaboration to enhance periodic monitoring and evaluation of the environmental impact of mining operations to prevent future incidents.
Highlighting the abundance of commercially viable critical minerals in the state, Governor Bago urged the federal government to focus on making the state a central hub for developing the nation’s mining sector.
The governor accompanied the minister to visit recovering victims at IBB Specialist Hospital and, on behalf of President Tinubu, announced a donation of N50 million to assist affected patients and families.