Senate Calls for Stricter Mining Safety After Kogi Landslide

On Wednesday, the Nigerian Senate called for stricter safety regulations in the mining sector after a landslide at a coal mining site in Kogi State resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals. The motion was sponsored by Senator Isah Jibrin, who represents Kogi East.

During the plenary, lawmakers observed a minute's silence for the victims. Jibrin pointed out that unsafe coal mining activities in the Ankpa Local Government Area and surrounding communities have raised significant safety, environmental, and humanitarian concerns.

He noted that on or about July 14, 2026, a landslide in Alufele, Enjema District, trapped artisanal miners and caused multiple fatalities. Jibrin criticized the prevalent use of the room-and-pillar mining system without proper reinforcement, which has led to increased risks of collapses.

He emphasized the lack of formal employment arrangements for many miners, leaving them without financial protection. The Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno, supported the motion, acknowledging the recurring nature of fatal mining accidents in Nigeria.