The Niger State government has urged businesses and residents to adopt responsible mining practices to enhance safety.

Governor Umaru Bago made this appeal during a visit to Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area, where he met with victims and community members affected by a recent explosion. He acknowledged the region’s rich deposits of gold and lithium but highlighted the risks posed by unregulated artisanal mining, including environmental degradation, water pollution, and health issues like lead poisoning and kidney failure.

He called on residents to surrender explosives and hazardous materials to a designated committee comprising security agencies, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders for proper handling.

Governor Bago announced a ₦174 million donation to support victims of the explosion. Compensation will include ₦5 million for those whose homes were completely destroyed, ₦2 million for partially damaged houses, ₦1 million for the injured, ₦2 million for families of the deceased, and ₦1 million for those whose vehicles were affected. A committee will be established to oversee the fair distribution of funds.

Accompanying the governor were Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, Senator Abubakar Bello, Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly AbdulMalik Sarkin-Daji, federal and state lawmakers, members of the state executive council, APC leaders, and Emir of Borgu Mohammed Haliru Dantoro Kitoro IV.

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