President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the incident at the Shiroro mining site as unfortunate and avoidable, saying new measures to avert recurrence, ensure safety, and secure investments in the mining sector would be put in place.
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, who led the federal government delegation on behalf of the president on a condolence visit to Niger State over the recent collapse of a mining site, said henceforth, mining companies must have a concrete plan for local value-adding, a remediation plan, and an insurance policy for mine workers before their license would be approved by the ministry.
He commended Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for quickly responding to the incident and appreciated the security personnel, leaders, and members of the community for their efforts to rescue some of the victims.
While extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the affected community, and the Niger State government, the minister assured that those who were still trapped would be safely rescued.
Responding, Governor Bago described the visit as timely and applauded the new policies of the federal government aimed at forestalling future occurrences.
He advised that all licensed miners in the state be grouped into cooperatives, and mining companies with licenses should inform and relate well with relevant stakeholders at the level of host communities, local government, traditional authority, and state government about their activities.
He said the use of technology in mining activities is against the use of explosives to prevent environmental hazards, and the need for environmental impact assessment before the commencement of mining activities will help improve safety.
The governor, who also announced the N50 million donation by the federal government to the victims of the collapsed mining site, appreciated the president's gesture, and promised that the fund would be delivered.
As the 10th Assembly approaches one year in office, the Deputy Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly, Hon Afiniki Eunice Dauda (Gurara Constituency), has reaffirmed the commitment of the legislators to be more robust in their legislative function.
Afiniki Dauda stated this shortly after their 149th sitting in an interview in her office at the House of Assembly Complex, Minna.
She said that the House was focused on working with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for the government to succeed and achieve meaningful development.
Amidst challenges, she added that the 10th Assembly has performed credibly well, making laws that have direct bearing on the people.
On her constituency project, Afiniki said she was concentrating on providing healthcare and food to her constituents.
According to her, she set aside funds monthly to provide healthcare services and food to the people because, being the only female lawmaker, she was enjoying the accorded respect from her colleagues and a good working relationship.
The deputy speaker described the Speaker, Rt Hon Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, as a young, energetic man who has been able to carry everyone along.
Afiniki, who was a member of the 6th Assembly, said that being an opposition member has played a vital role in shaping her legislative horizons.
Meanwhile, in a matter of public urgency laid before the plenary, Hon. Zubairu Ismail (Rafi Constituency) has called on the Niger State Government, through the State Ministry of Humanitarian and Disaster Management in collaboration with the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NISEMA), to provide food and shelter for communities displaced by bandits in Rafi Local Government.
Ismail named the communities to include Ungwan Mallam Isah, Wayam Village, and Ungwan Bahago.
He urged the executive arm to equip the local vigilantes with arms to fight banditry and also impress on the federal government to deploy security to the affected areas.
One minute of silence was observed for the three vigilantes who lost their lives, while four were injured.
The House has commenced its recess and will reconvene on July 2, 2024.
