Niger lifts ban on mining as Adamawa tasks monarchs on menace

The Niger State government has conditionally lifted the ban on mining.

Acting Governor Yakubu Garba made the pronouncement yesterday while inaugurating an 18-man task force on illegal mining to tackle environmental degradation in Minna.

He noted that since the inception of the administration, the government has been disturbed by the menace of illegal mining in parts of the state.

Garba regretted that despite several efforts to fight the phenomenon, compliance had been very low.

The Acting governor stressed that the mining industry is crucial for economic growth, but lamented that illegal mining had negatively affected the environment, hence the decision to suspend mining activities some months back.

He said out of the 880 registered mining firms, consisting of 578 companies and 302 cooperatives in the state, only about 261 reported to the Ministry of Mineral Resources for profiling.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and chairman of the task force, Abubakar Usman, on behalf of others, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to deliver.

The Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Sabo Yahaya is Co-Chairman, while the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mohammed Yunusa Nahauni, is serving as the secretary.

Other members are the Commissioner for Homeland Security; Commissioner of Police; Director of DSS, Commandant of NSCDC, Commandant of Vigilante, all the 25 council chairmen, secretaries of all the eight Emirate Councils, representatives of State Assembly, Judiciary, among others.

EQUALLY, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has charged district heads to be vigilant against illegal miners, who pose significant security risks, and announced plans to introduce legislation to curb the nefarious activities.

He also pledged to enhance the welfare and working conditions of traditional rulers, citing the need for clear role definition and improved support.

During a meeting with the district heads at the Government House in Yola, Fintiri emphasised the crucial role of monarchs in maintaining peace and security at the grassroots.

He acknowledged that their efforts are often hindered by poor pay and undefined job roles.

As part of his reforms, the governor plans to engage the district heads in workshops to enhance their capacity and address the challenges they face.

Led by Mustafa Mohammad Sanusi, the district heads expressed gratitude for the governor’s commitment to their welfare, and pledged support for his policies.