- Insecurity and difficult terrain are hindering rescue operations for 30 miners trapped in a collapsed pit in Galadima-Kogo, Shiroro
- The Niger State commissioner urged artisanal miners to follow safe procedures and called for better supervision of mining activities
The Niger State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Ahmed Baba Suleiman Yumu, has disclosed that insecurity and challenging terrain are obstructing rescue operations for 30 miners trapped in a collapsed pit in Galadima-Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area.
Earlier reports indicated that one person had died, seven were severely injured, and 30 others remained trapped following the pit collapse.
In a statement released by the ministry’s Director of Media and Strategy, Hanibu Abubakar Wushishi, the commissioner stated that the ministry and other relevant stakeholders are striving to rescue the trapped miners.
“The ministry, in collaboration with other agencies and professional stakeholders, is doing its utmost to ensure the trapped miners are rescued, despite it being over 24 hours since the collapse occurred. The rescue efforts continue amid difficult terrain, area insecurity, and the risk of further collapses if the rescue is not conducted professionally and cautiously,” the statement read.
The commissioner and his permanent secretary urged artisanal miners to adhere to safe mining procedures. They called on relevant authorities to monitor and supervise mining activities rapidly spreading across the state to prevent future incidents.
“The ministry appeals for patience, understanding, and prayers from all Nigerlites and Nigerians for the successful rescue of these innocent artisanal miners,” the statement concluded.