The Niger State Government in Nigeria has lifted its year-long ban on mining activities, with new conditions set for operators. The suspension, announced by Acting Governor Yakubu Garba at the Government House in Minna, comes with strict measures aimed at curbing insecurity and preventing illegal mining.
Mining companies are now required to undergo profiling by the State Ministry of Mineral Resources to ensure compliance with state regulations. This move is intended to monitor mining operations, reduce revenue losses, and prevent illegal activities within the sector.
To further address the issue, the state government has inaugurated a task force comprising representatives from government agencies, security personnel, and community leaders. This task force is charged with identifying illegal miners, eradicating child labor at mining sites, and verifying the mineral titles of license holders across the state.
The state government attributed the previous ban to the rampant banditry in areas with large gold deposits, particularly in the Shiroro, Munya, and Rafi local government areas, which are hotspots for banditry activities.
