Nasarawa State Government Launches Task Force Against Illegal Mining

The Nasarawa State Government has formed a special monitoring and enforcement team to address illegal mining and child labor in mining activities throughout the state. Margaret Elayo, the State Commissioner for Environment, Mineral Resources and Mining, announced this initiative during a press briefing in Lafia.

The decision was prompted by the recent deaths of more than 30 suspected illegal miners in Minna, Niger State. Elayo emphasized that the government would not tolerate illegal mining that endangers lives and contributes to environmental degradation.

The newly established monitoring team is authorized to visit mining sites and communities, arresting individuals or entities operating without the necessary licenses and government clearance. Elayo specifically mentioned Marhai in Wamba Local Government Area as a location with reported illegal mining activities.

She urged traditional rulers and community leaders to collaborate with the government to eliminate illegal mining and protect citizens' lives and property. The tragic incident in Niger State serves as a warning for Nasarawa State to implement precautionary measures.