The Federal Government has mobilised first responders to the collapsed mining site in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
One person was confirmed dead in the site, which collapsed following a heavy downpour on June 3, 2024 with 30 workers including the site manager, Alhaji Ibrahim Ishaku trapped in the pit.
A statement by Segun Tomori, the media aide to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake in Abuja on Tuesday said Federal Government’s swift action underscores its commitment to mitigating the adverse impact of the incident and rescuing those still trapped in the rubble.
The statement reads: “Upon learning of the incident, we mobilised our Federal Mines Officer (FMO) and officials of the Mines Inspectorate to the site. In collaboration with the mining company, we have rescued seven victims, some with injuries. Rescue operations with excavators are ongoing to ensure we avert loss of lives.”
The Minister recently announced a policy making remedial measures for mining pits mandatory as part of the criteria for applying for mining licenses. This aims to minimize such accidents.
The statement further noted that the Minister is actively monitoring the situation at the mining site operated by African Minerals and Logistics Ltd.
He assured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s resolve to investigate the remote causes of the disaster to prevent a recurrence.