Nasarawa State Government Bans Minors from Mining Sites

The Nasarawa State Government has enacted a ban on children under the age of 18 from participating in mining activities throughout the state. This decision was announced by Margaret Elayo, the Commissioner for Environment, Solid Minerals and Mining, during a press conference in Lafia.

The ban follows reports of fatalities among suspected illegal miners in Minna, Niger State, and rising concerns regarding the dangers posed to children in mining environments. Elayo indicated that children are often used as laborers in artisanal mining sites, particularly in Wamba, Nassarawa-Eggon, and Kokona local government areas, exposing them to health hazards and depriving them of education.

The government has formed a special monitoring and enforcement team to address illegal mining and child labor. Elayo stated that any violation of this directive would lead to arrests and prosecutions under the Child Rights Law and mining regulations.

The government aims to collaborate with security agencies and community leaders to enforce the ban while promoting responsible mining practices.