Artisanal mining president demands probe into death of Niger miners

Niger State Governor Umar Bago has stated that the region is rich in alluvial gold deposits, with gold being discoverable on the streets following heavy rainfall in certain areas. During an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Bago addressed the issue of illegal mining activities and the challenges of regulating mining operations in the state.

He admitted that the state lacks a comprehensive database of illegal miners, suggesting that licensed operators would be identified and profiled to determine those involved in mining activities, with the aim of enhancing security across the state. According to Bago, illegal miners include not only artisanal miners but also individuals operating in unauthorized areas.

He emphasized that Niger State is rich in alluvial gold, and heavy rainfall can lead individuals to find gold on the streets, as is commonly observed. This phenomenon has contributed to the surge of illegal mining activities in the region, creating concerns over the regulation of mining sites, identification of operators, and the responsibilities of relevant authorities.

The recent deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the National Social Investment Development Commission (NSCDC) have further heightened these concerns and sparked renewed discussions about the need for effective regulation of mining activities in Niger State.