Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has vowed to ensure the enforcement of insurance policies for miners across the country, to enhance safety measures and provide relief to miners and their families in the event of accidents.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, when he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on a visit to Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, following the recent mine collapse in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area, which resulted in the loss of lives and trapping of others.
The minister commended the Niger State government for its swift response in mobilising emergency rescue operations and emphasised the need for all necessary efforts to rescue those still trapped.
Alake, on his official X handle, also stressed that remediation plans must accompany mining license applications, and irresponsible mining operations that pose threats to the environment and communities would no longer be tolerated.
“The Federal Government is deeply saddened by the recent mine pit collapse in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area, and we condole with the families of the victims.
“Henceforth, the federal government will ensure the enforcement of insurance policies for miners across the country to enhance safety measures and provide relief to miners and their families in the event of accidents.
“Irresponsible mining operations that pose threats to the environment and communities will no longer be tolerated. Remediation plans must accompany mining license applications,” the Minister stressed.
“The federal government’s commitment to enforcing the insurance policy is aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of mine workers and their families,” Alake tweeted.
