FG Targets 4,000 Abandoned Mine Pits for Investment

The Federal Government has identified more than 4,000 abandoned mine pits in Plateau State as potential investment sites for energy, tourism, and fishery projects. This initiative follows a tragic incident where seven individuals died due to the collapse of an abandoned tin mine pit in Kassa, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, urged private investors to collaborate with the government to convert these dangerous sites into economically viable assets. He warned illegal miners against entering these pits without licenses, stating that the tragedy could have been avoided with proper permits.

Alake noted that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has rehabilitated 59 abandoned mine pits and is employing technology, including Geographic Information System satellite mapping and Artificial Intelligence, to assess and develop reclamation plans for the legacy pits. Plateau State has been selected as the pilot beneficiary of this initiative.