Nigeria to mandate insurance for miners

By Esther Agbo

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake has pledged to clamp down on illegal mining operations across Nigeria.

Alake announced that the Federal Government will now require mining companies to provide a concrete remediation plan for mine sites before approving any new mining licences.

He said additionally, these companies will be mandated to offer insurance coverage for all mine workers to ensure their safety in the event of an accident.

He made these statements during a condolence visit to the government and people of Niger State, following a mining pit collapse in Galkago community, Shiroro Local Government Area, which trapped numerous miners. Alake was received by Niger State Governor Umaru Bago.

During the visit, Alake emphasised that no new mining licences would be issued without a solid remediation plan, and he highlighted the need for a thorough review of the environmental impact assessment process for mining licences.

Governor Bago linked the high insecurity in Shiroro and Munya Local Government Areas to the region’s rich mineral deposits and called for a census of licensed miners and stricter regulation of harmful mining practices.

The Governor accompanied the Minister to the IBB Specialist Hospital, where some of the rescued victims are receiving treatment, after meeting with local traditional leaders at the government house.

According to the state emergency management agency, the mining pit collapse occurred on Monday, trapping at least 30 people.

Rescue operations, hampered by constant rainfall and regional insecurity, were still ongoing five days later.