The Niger State Government has ordered the immediate closure of six illegal mineral processing sites operating within the Kontagora Local Government Area, as part of renewed efforts to clamp down on unregulated mining activities across the state.

The action follows growing concerns over the activities of unlicensed operators in the area, which authorities say pose serious environmental, security, and regulatory risks if not urgently addressed.

Government officials confirmed that the affected sites were operating without the necessary approvals, in violation of existing mining regulations. The shutdown, according to authorities, forms part of a wider enforcement drive aimed at sanitising the mining sector and ensuring that only licensed operators are permitted to engage in mineral exploration and processing.

The state government also warned that illegal mining activities not only deprive the state of valuable revenue but also expose host communities to environmental degradation, land damage, and safety hazards.

Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement operations across mining communities, stressing that more illegal sites would be identified and shut down if found operating outside the law.

The latest move in Kontagora is expected to serve as a strong warning to other unregistered operators, as the government intensifies efforts to restore order in the sector and attract legitimate investment into Niger State’s solid minerals industry.