Niger SSG Chairs Strategic  Meeting  To Curb Ilegal Mining, Unlawful Settlement At Gurara  falls 

The Secretary to the Niger.State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, has chaired a high-level strategic meeting aimed at addressing the growing concerns of illegal mining activities and the unlawful settlement of herders at the Gurara Waterfalls in Gurara Local Government Area of the state.

The meeting, held recently at the Conference Hall of the SSG’s Office in Minna, brought together key stakeholders, including the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu Miller and representatives of the Ministries of Culture and Tourism, Homeland Security, Mineral Resources, Lands and Survey, Niger State Tourism Corporation and the Commander, Mining Marshal, NSCDC among others.

This was contained in a Press statement issued by the Information Officer SSG’s  Office, Government House Minna, Abubakar Adamu Kuta and made available to Journalists on Monday in Minna,adding that-

the meeting focused on developing actionable measures to safeguard the natural heritage of the waterfalls and restore order within the area.

In his remarks, the SSG, represented by the Permanent Secretary (Political Affairs), SSG’s Office, ESV James Bake, alongside the Permanent Secretary (Special Duties), SSG’s Office, Dr. Idris Abdullahi Legbo, expressed deep concern over the environmental degradation and security risks posed by illegal mining and unregulated settlements.

He emphasized the State Government’s commitment to preserving the ecological integrity and tourism potential of Gurara Waterfalls, while ensuring the safety and well-being of surrounding communities.

Alhaji Abubakar Usman further directed all relevant authorities to intensify surveillance, enforce existing regulations, and collaborate closely with local communities to prevent further encroachment and illegal activities in the area.

A multi-sectoral committee comprising representatives from the Ministries of Lands, Justice, Tourism, and other relevant agencies is to be constituted to assess land ownership issues, assess encroachment, and recommend appropriate solutions, including compensation where necessary.

The State Government reiterates its resolve to protect its natural resources and calls on all citizens to support efforts aimed at maintaining law and order across all parts of the state.