Following human and environmental losses to artisan and illegal mining in Nigeria, the federal government has devised a new policy for mining companies to have local value-addition, remediation plans and insurance policies for mine workers before their license would be approved henceforth.
Minister of solid minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, disclosed this at Government House Minna when he led a delegation on a condolence visit to Niger State government over the recent collapse of a mining site in Shiroro local government area of the state.
He said the measures were to ensure safety in the mining sector as well as ensure security of investments.
While describing the incident as unfortunate and avoidable, the minister harped on the need for measures to be put in place to avert recurrence and ensure safe operations.
He lauded the government of Niger State for its responsive and proactive measures to mobilise for rescue missions as well as the security personnel, leaders and members of the community on their effort to rescue some of the victims.
While extending condolences to families of the victims, the affected community and the Niger State government, he assured that every effort would be deployed to ensure that those trapped are rescued.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described the visit as timely and applauded the new policy.
He also offered some suggestions to the federal government for effective outcome; they are the need for all licensed miners in the state to be grouped into cooperatives; mining companies with licenses should intimate and relate well with relevant stakeholders from the level of host communities, local government, emirate, and the state government about their activities.
