Senate Calls for Mining Safety Reforms After Kogi Tragedy

On Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate directed extensive reforms to enhance safety standards in the mining sector after a landslide on July 14 at Alufele in Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State, resulted in the deaths of 20 artisanal miners. Senator Isah Jibrin (APC, Kogi East) sponsored the motion, emphasizing the dangers posed by unsafe mining practices and inadequate regulatory oversight.

The landslide trapped numerous miners underground, injuring several others and submerging heavy-duty trucks. Jibrin highlighted the area's geological vulnerabilities and the recurring accidents linked to unsafe mining methods.

The Senate urged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to conduct a nationwide audit of licensed miners and called for the establishment of a Mining Workers’ Compensation Scheme funded by licensed operators. Additionally, lawmakers directed the National Insurance Commission to develop a compulsory occupational accident insurance scheme for all miners and recommended creating a Mine Rehabilitation and Victims Support Fund for emergency medical treatment and rehabilitation.