The Niger State Government has released N249 million to the families of deceased illegal miners and survivors of a mining tragedy in the state, hours after the Federal Government announced a N250 million intervention for the affected families and survivors.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the state government’s financial assistance on Monday evening, with each family of the deceased receiving N5 million, while 32 survivors received N2 million each.
Bago said the intervention was intended to support the affected families and survivors while cushioning the economic and emotional impact of the tragedy.
He added that the assistance would give beneficiaries an opportunity to pursue alternative economic activities instead of returning to “unsafe and unprofessional mining practices”.
The governor urged survivors and other young people in mining communities to abandon dangerous artisanal mining and seek safer and more sustainable sources of livelihood.
Niger to Establish Schools in Mining Communities
Beyond the financial intervention, Bago said the state government had directed the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board to establish schools in appropriate communities.
He said the initiative was aimed at encouraging children to enrol in school rather than become exposed to the dangers associated with artisanal mining.
According to the governor, the measure forms part of a broader effort to protect children, expand access to education and create better opportunities for young people in mining communities.
Bago expressed appreciation to the families of the deceased and survivors for their perseverance, patience and understanding throughout the difficult period.
He also commended the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago, for his efforts to promote peace within his domain and for counselling and supporting families affected by the tragedy.
The governor further acknowledged the emir’s continued support for his administration and his contributions to peace, stability and community engagement in the state.
Responding on behalf of the bereaved families and survivors, Bahago thanked the governor for the financial intervention, describing it as “a compassionate gesture towards the affected families”.
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