Niger State government has commenced a concentrated effort to regulate illegal mining as efforts to protect communities from the harmful effects of the activities.
The Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Garba Sabo Yahaya, stated that the effort is to curb negative impact of illegal mining on residents of host communities, as it regards their health and livelihoods.
The onslaught earmarked popular mining sites including those in Mai Wayo, Kateregi, and Gadaeregi along the Minna-Bida Road.
Yahaya stated the importance of responsible mining practices to safeguard both the environment and the health of the people.
In response, the Project Manager of Ries Templar Integrated Services, Adeife Oluwatosin, expresses willingness to suspend operations and cooperate with the authorities, pledging to adhere to regulations and improve their practices for the benefit of the State and its residents.