37 miners, including alleged minors, died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State, prompting Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris to call for tighter regulation of artisanal mining and stricter enforcement of safety standards.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, the governor expressed deep sympathy to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the bereaved families and the people of the state over the tragic incident.
Idris said the deaths highlighted the urgent need to strengthen the regulation of artisanal mining and to enforce safety standards that protect those engaged in mining activities.
The governor announced that Kebbi State would work with the Niger State Government to promote safer mining practices, raise public awareness and create alternative livelihood opportunities for vulnerable youths in communities along the states’ shared border.
He prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and directed relevant authorities in Kebbi State to observe a moment of reflection and offer special prayers for the families affected by the loss.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>