The Federal Government has mobilised first responders to the site of a collapsed in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
One person has been confirmed dead in the site, which caved in after a heavy downpour on June 3, 2024.
No fewer than 30 workers, including the site manager, Alhaji Ibrahim Ishaku were trapped in the pit.
A statement on Tuesday by Segun Tomori, the media aide to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake in Abuja said Federal Government’s swift action attests to its commitment to minimizing 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.
