37 deaths, repeated arrests: Inside Niger’s unending mining crisis

On September 17, 37 alleged illegal miners died in custody while being held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) during operations in Niger State. The incident occurred in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas on September 15 and 16. The cause and circumstances surrounding the deaths are currently under investigation.

The federal government has formed an independent investigation committee. Since the deaths, mining activities have resumed across several locations in Niger State. Residents have lived with mining operations for years, as miners excavate near homes, churches, hotels, and other properties. Despite repeated arrests and enforcement operations, miners have returned to some locations, even after the state-wide suspension of mining activities announced by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago on September 18 following the incident.

In an interview, a 16-year-old miner from Katsina State, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that miners would continue returning due to lack of alternative livelihoods. Residents suffer the financial burden of repairing damage caused by excavations, such as destroyed fences and filled-in gullies. Despite authorities' efforts to stop mining, miners continue to operate, with some coming from outside the state.