Niger Government Tightens Grip On Mining Sector

The Commissioner overseeing Mineral Resources in Niger State, Hon. Muh’d Qasim Danjuma , has spearheaded a coordinated field surveillance at an excavation location within Minna metropolis, Chanchaga Local Government Council, acting on intelligence pointing to possible unauthorized mineral activities.

The Information Officer of the Ministry,Dibie. Kareen stated this in a Press statement issued and made available to Journalists on Thursday in Minna

The statement added that the exercise brought together top ranking officials of the Ministry alongside the Assistant General Manager of Zuma Development Company, reflecting the State Government’s renewed resolve to strengthen oversight and enforce compliance across the extractive sector.

According to Maureen, “Observations made during the field engagement revealed several breaches that fell outside the scope of issued permits and contradicted existing operational guidelines and official approvals”.

Consequently, the Commissioner promptly instructed security personnel present to initiate lawful measures in line with statutory provisions.

During the operation, a man claiming to function as an Assistant Desk Officer in charge of Mining Matters for Chanchaga Local Government Council, one Marcus Dobiya, was intercepted for questioning.

He was subsequently transferred to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), where he remains detained while inquiries continue and further legal processes are pursued.

Hon. Danjuma reiterated the unwavering stance of the Niger State Government against illicit extraction, unapproved practices, false representation, and misuse of public authority within the solid minerals industry.

He maintained that only operations operating within the boundaries of valid permits, regulatory instruments, and professional standards would be tolerated.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Mineral Resources has pledged to intensify surveillance efforts, strengthen enforcement mechanisms, and deepen cooperation among relevant institutions to restore order in the sector, secure public earnings, ensure community safety, and advance accountable mineral development in line with the “New Niger Agenda”.