Niger State begins crack down on illegal mining
The Niger State government through the Ministry of Mineral Resources has kicked off the crackdown on illegal mining in the state. Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Alhaji Garba Sabo Yahaya flagged of the process and said the move follows complaints from communities regarding the harmful impacts on their health and livelihoods.
The sites actively involved with illegal mining include Mai Wayo, Kateregi, and Gadaeregi along the Minna-Bida Road. These activities not only degrade the environment but also pose significant health risks to residents. The government aims to promote responsible mining practices is commendable.
Mining potential in Niger
During a visit at alleged sited, Dibie Maureen, the commissioner for the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Garba Yahaya, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary and the Directors observed that some of the mining activities were causing environmental degradation and posing health risks to the communities living in the area.
The geological location of Niger State endows it with mineral resources. The State boasts of commercial quantity of large minerals deposit like gold, talc, kaolin, Tantalite, granite, marble, copper and lead. Considering the importance of this sector, the State Government established Ministry of Mineral Resources for effective and efficient exploration of these resources.
The State is open to partnership in areas of exploration, exploitation and processing. According to reports from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. All Local Governments in the State have one or more deposits of solid minerals.
