Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has met with members of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Niger State Chapter, and the Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW), Niger State Chapter, to commiserate with them over the deaths of 37 artisanal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.
The meeting was part of efforts by the state government to engage stakeholders in the mining sector and address concerns arising from the incident, while strengthening measures to promote responsible and safe mining operations across the state.
Governor Bago expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and associates of the deceased miners, praying for the repose of their souls and for God to grant their families the fortitude to bear the loss.
The governor briefed the leadership and members of the two mining organisations on strategies being developed by his administration to ensure responsible mining across Niger State.
He explained that responsible mining goes beyond mineral extraction, stressing that it encompasses ethical practices, environmental stewardship, meaningful engagement with host communities and a balance between productivity and social responsibility.
Bago also stressed the importance of safety within the mining sector, noting that the protection of miners, mine workers and communities around mining sites remains a priority for his administration.
According to him, mining is a highly specialised field of operation that requires strict adherence to safety standards and responsible practices to protect lives, livelihoods and the environment.
The governor further disclosed that the committee constituted by the state government to look into the circumstances surrounding the incident had commenced the process of taking a headcount of the deceased and identifying their families.
He appealed to mining stakeholders to cooperate with the government and other relevant authorities as efforts continue to address the issues surrounding the incident and improve safety within the sector.
Bago assured the miners and mine workers of the continued support of his administration, particularly in initiatives aimed at developing the state’s mining sector in a sustainable and responsible manner.
In their response, the miners and mine workers appreciated the governor’s efforts to promote responsible mining in Niger State.
They also acknowledged his support for the mining sector and commended his leadership in responding to the unfortunate deaths of the artisanal miners.
The meeting came amid continuing concerns over the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the miners, with authorities undertaking investigations into the incident.
The engagement, according to the state government, is also expected to contribute to improved collaboration between government, mining operators, workers and host communities in strengthening safety and responsible mining practices across Niger State.
