Niger State and Federal Government to Organize Artisanal Miners
The initiative aims to establish a responsible mining policy and form cooperatives for artisanal miners, following the deaths of 37 individuals in NSCDC custody.
The initiative aims to establish a responsible mining policy and form cooperatives for artisanal miners, following the deaths of 37 individuals in NSCDC custody.
· Updated
The federal government and the Niger State Government are collaborating to implement a responsible mining policy and organize artisanal miners. Governor Mohammed Bago announced that miners will be formed into cooperatives, provided with necessary tools, and ensured safety measures.
This plan comes in the wake of the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna. The individuals were arrested during enforcement operations in September.
An independent committee, established by the Federal Government, is investigating the circumstances and cause of these deaths. The committee has inspected the NSCDC facility and mining sites, conducted autopsies, and interviewed witnesses. It has requested a two-week extension to finalize its report.
Governor Bago also expressed concern about children being exposed to dangerous mining activities and abandoning school for such work. He urged parents to monitor their children and discourage them from engaging in illegal mining and other risky behaviors.
FAQ
What is the government's plan for artisanal miners in Niger State?
The government plans to organize artisanal miners into cooperatives and ensure they have the necessary tools and safety measures.
What is being done to investigate the deaths of the 37 miners?
An independent committee has been formed by the Federal Government to investigate the deaths, examining the NSCDC custody facility, mining sites, and interviewing relevant parties.
