6 Illegal Mining, Processing Sites Shut Down In Niger

Six illegal mining and processing sites have been shut down by the monitoring team of the Niger State government, in conjunction with the Mining Marshals from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The state commissioner for Mineral Resources, Hon. Muhammad Qasim Danjuma, conducted a strategic two-day monitoring and stakeholders’ engagement tour across Mariga and Kontagora local government areas, where the sites are located.

The commissioner, who was accompanied by the head of Mining Marshals National Headquarters, Abuja, A. C. Onoja and the North Central zonal head of Mining Marshals, Jibrin Muhammad, said the move was to strengthen mining regulations and promote peace in the host communities.

While stressing that the state was committed to safeguarding the nation’s mineral resources, he explained that during the entire operation, six illegal mining processing sites were discovered and promptly shut down.

“The action underscores the unwavering commitment of the Niger State government to sanitising the mining sector, curbing unlawful activities and ensuring that mineral resources contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic growth,” he added.

The commissioner reaffirmed the administration of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago’s determination to protect life and property, enhance security, and deliver sustainable solutions to the challenges affecting mining communities across the state.

During the visit, some community leaders and traditional rulers expressed appreciation for the state government’s intervention, describing the visit as timely and impactful.

LEADERSHIP reports that illegal mining in the state has posed major concerns, caused communal clashes, and sparked disputes involving the Wamba, Mangoro, Igwama, and Kasuwan Garba communities in Mariga local government. The visit provided the government with the opportunity to adopt a sustainable framework to end the menace.