The Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources, in conjunction with the security agencies, on Friday, 11th July, 2025 continued its on-site operations and surveillance of identified illegal mining locations to end illegal mining activities and arrested 41 illegal miners.
The enforcement exercise was led by the Commissioner of the Ministry, Alhaji Garba Sabo Yahaya, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Senior Directors, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as members of the Niger State Forest Hunters Association.
According to a statement from the spokesperson of the ministry, Dibier Maureen, the operation led to the arrest of 41 illegal miners, comprising 34 males and 7 females.
It noted that various items, including pulping machines, hoses, shovels, and other crude mining tools were also confiscated at the scene.
The statement further highlighted that the targeted sites include the area behind (PDP) Secretariat, near the El-Amin University, Minna, and Cateren-Gwari mechanic village, both known as hotspots for unregulated mining activities within the Minna metropolis.
The commissioner had reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ending the menace of illegal mining, describing it as a major contributor to environmental degradation and land pollution.
Sabo appealed to traditional leaders and landowners across the state to refrain from selling land to unauthorized miners,warning that such actions further encourage illegal activities that threaten community well-being and the environment.
Alhaji Yahaya called for the continued support of Niger State residents in the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing that lasting change requires collective action.
He also assured citizens that the administration of Governor Umar Mohammed Bago remains committed to creating a secure and economically vibrant state that is attractive to both local and international investors.
In Sabo’s words, “This government is determined to restore order, protect our environment, and ensure that the resources of Niger State benefit all its people,” he said.
The commissioner reaffirmed that operations to flush out illegal miners will continue until the state is completely free from the menace of illegal mining activities.
