MINNA, Nigeria - The Niger State Government has intensified efforts to combat illegal mining, shutting down six unauthorized mineral processing sites during a two-day enforcement operation in Mariga Local Government Area and Kontagora Local Government Area.
The exercise was led by the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Muhammad Qasim Danjuma, in collaboration with officials of the Mining Marshals Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Members of the delegation included Assistant Commandant Onoja, the Federal Head of Mining Marshals, and Jibrin Muhammad, the North Central Zonal Head of Mining Marshals, alongside other security personnel.
According to government officials, the affected processing sites were operating outside approved regulatory frameworks and were shut down as part of efforts to sanitize the mining sector, curb illegal activities and increase government revenue from mineral resources.
Beyond enforcement measures, the delegation also embarked on a peace-building initiative in Wamba Ward of Mariga Local Government Area, where consultations were held with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders.
The discussions focused on security concerns, communal disputes and tensions affecting communities including Wamba, Mangoro, Igwama and Kasuwan Garba.
Speaking during the engagement, Danjuma reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago to improving security, protecting lives and property, and promoting responsible mining practices throughout the state.
He emphasized that meaningful development in mining communities can only be achieved through peace, security and compliance with established mining regulations.
The meeting was hosted by the District Head of Wamba, Isah Ya’u, who joined other community leaders in welcoming the government’s intervention.
Stakeholders described the initiative as timely and praised the administration for combining enforcement actions against illegal operators with direct engagement aimed at resolving local grievances.
They also pledged support for government efforts to encourage peaceful coexistence, responsible resource extraction and sustainable socio-economic development in mining communities.
The operation forms part of broader efforts by Niger State authorities to address illegal mining activities, which have been linked to environmental degradation, revenue losses and security challenges in several parts of the state.
Peoplesmind continues to monitor developments in Nigeria’s mining sector and efforts to promote lawful and sustainable resource management.
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