LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – This announcement came in the wake of a recent mine pit collapse in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area, which trapped over 50 workers and resulted in several fatalities.
According to a statement from the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, Alake conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s condolences during a visit to Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, in Minna. Alake emphasized the government’s dedication to preventing future incidents and reducing the impact of such disasters.
“I bring the condolences and sympathies of Mr President to the families of victims, those injured, the entire community, and the government and people of Niger State on the mine pit collapse. It is unfortunate and avoidable. Though we learned the disaster was due to heavy downpours, we are committed to intensifying the monitoring of mining operations to ensure conformity to environmental standards,” Alake stated.
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The incident occurred on June 3, when heavy rainfall caused a collapse at a mining site in Galadima Kogo, trapping more than 20 workers.
Reports indicated that seven workers were rescued, while approximately 14 individuals remain trapped.
The Niger State Police Command stated on Thursday that the rescue of the remaining trapped workers has been delayed due to a lack of equipment and the presence of heavy rocks.
During his visit, the minister praised the state government for quickly mobilizing emergency rescue operations in coordination with federal agencies, emphasizing the necessity of rescuing those still trapped.
Alake announced that to improve safety measures and provide support to miners and their families in case of accidents, insurance policies for miners nationwide would be enforced.
Alake also highlighted the necessity of including remediation plans in mining license applications, warning that irresponsible mining operations that endanger the environment and communities would not be tolerated.
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“We must also put in place contingency plans to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on mining sites. For instance, making the installation of support pillars under shafts mandatory. This practice is common in other countries,” he added.
Governor Bago expressed his appreciation to President Tinubu for the condolence visit and called for stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and state authorities to ensure mining companies adhere to safety standards.
He advocated for enhanced monitoring and evaluation of the environmental impact of mining operations to prevent future tragedies.
Highlighting the abundance of commercially viable critical minerals in Niger State, Bago urged the Federal Government to focus on developing the state as a central hub for the nation’s mining sector.
He accompanied Alake to visit the recuperating victims at IBB Specialist Hospital.
On behalf of President Tinubu, Alake announced a donation of N50 million to support affected patients and their families.