Niger State Governor Bago Seeks Mining Ban After Deaths

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago announced his administration's intention to seek an executive order from the Presidency or the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to ban mining activities in problematic locations within the state. This announcement came after the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Governor Bago highlighted that illegal mining poses significant challenges in Niger State, particularly as it draws children away from education. He expressed the need for stronger federal intervention, stating that the state government lacks the capacity to enforce mining regulations effectively.

Bago remarked on the difficulty of addressing the issue, noting that many individuals involved in illegal mining are reluctant to abandon it due to financial incentives. He referenced a UNICEF report predicting that by 2027, no children will be in Grade 7 due to their involvement in artisanal mining, which has led to a significant decline in school attendance.