Niger State Warns Against Illegal Mining And Environment Plundering

Niger State government has warned against illegal mining in the state and advised operators to desist from further plundering of the environment.

Governor Sani Bello handed down the warning on Sunday at the palace of Emir of Kagara, Alhaji Saliu Tanko, in Kagara Rafi Local Government area of the state.

The Governor expressed concerns over the illegal mining in Shikira village in Kagara Emirate Council where many lives mostly minors were lost recently to lead poison from illegal mining of gold by the locals and urged the people of the area to stop forthwith.

“It is high time our people desisted from engaging in illegal mining. Its devastating effect on their health, environment and economy is un-quantifiable.

“The irony of this activity is that our people are being exploited, abused and at the end many lives are put on the line due to health hazards associated with mining and in the long run our human capital is being depleted, with our environment exposed to danger.

“Our people must stop this killing. Government will not close its eyes for her citizens to engage in self-destructive venture or fold her arms to activities that are inimical to the health and well-being of her people,” the Governor stressed.

Governor Bello also said efforts were on to standardise mining activities in the state in collaboration with the Federal Government so that miners and the environment would be properly protected, with proceeds from exploitation well-coordinated.

“The exploitation of our people is unacceptable. They are not only exposing the whole community to danger, they are been paid pittance.

“That is why we are appealing to our people to exercise patience for government to fine tune operation in the sector,” he said.

The Governor further urged stakeholders within and outside the state to join hands with the administration to end illegal mining in the state.

“We want stakeholders to join hands with us in combating this menace. Community leaders must intensify sensitisation on the negative impact of illegal mining on the people and environment.”

Nigeria’s solid minerals have not been explored by the government, as the nation’s focus has largely been on crude which is the major source of revenue.

The current administration of Muhammadu Buhari has, however, showed its concerns for the fallow sector, with the Minister in charge of the sector, Mr Kayode Fayemi, saying the nation was ready to explore the resources.