From Yakubu Mustapha Minna
The Federal Government has has announced a donation of N50 million for the victims of mining site that collapsed at Galkogo Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
It also announced new policy measures to ensure safety in the mining sector as well as ensure security of investments.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu disclosed this in Minna, when he led a delegation on a condolence visit to Niger State over the recent collapse of a mining site in the State.
Represented by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, Tinubu described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable hence, the need for new measures to avert a recurrence.
According to him, the new policies are that henceforth, mining companies must have concrete plan for local value-addition, remediation plan; and insurance policy for mine workers before their licence would be approved by the Ministry.
He commended the Governor of Niger State, for his responsive and proactive measures to mobilise for rescue mission and also appreciated the security personnel, leaders, and members of the community for their efforts to rescue some of the victims.
In his remarks, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described the visit as timely and applauded the new policies of the Federal government aimed at forestalling future occurrence.
The farmer Governor suggested some recommendations including the need for all licensed miners in the State to be grouped into cooperatives.
Mining companies with licences should intimate and relate well with relevant stakeholders from the level of host communities, local government, Emirate, and the State Government about their activities among others, he said.
