Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Niger State Government on the 15th of June, 2026, has ordered the immediate shutdown of six illegal mineral processing sites operating within the Kontagora Local Government Area as part of a renewed crackdown on unregulated mining activities that have posed serious environmental, security, and regulatory risks. The enforcement operation, carried out by the State Ministry of Mineral Resources in collaboration with the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), took place during a two‑day monitoring and peace‑building tour across Mariga and Kontagora local government areas. The exercise was led by the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Muhammad Qasim Danjuma, alongside the Federal Head of Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant A. C. Onoja, and the North Central Zonal Head of Mining Marshals, Jibrin Muhammad, along with other security personnel mandated to protect the nation’s mineral resources.
The affected sites were operating without the necessary approvals, in violation of existing mining regulations. Authorities confirmed that the shutdown was part of a wider enforcement drive aimed at sanitising the mining sector, curbing illegal operations, and ensuring that mineral resources contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy. The operation also focused on addressing communal disputes and security challenges linked to mining activities in host communities such as Wamba, Mangoro, Igwama and Kasuwan Garba, where tensions between stakeholders have been rising.
Beyond enforcement, the delegation led by Commissioner Danjuma held consultations with traditional rulers and community leaders in Wamba Ward of Mariga Local Government Area to foster peace and promote responsible resource extraction. The meeting, hosted by the District Head of Wamba, Alhaji Isah Ya’u, stressed that sustainable development in mining communities can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, security and full compliance with mining regulations. Traditional rulers and community stakeholders reportedly commended the government for the intervention, describing it as timely and pledging support for efforts to promote lawful mining and peaceful coexistence in the affected areas.
Commissioner Danjuma reiterated the commitment of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago’s administration to protecting lives and property, enhancing security, and delivering sustainable solutions to the challenges affecting mining communities across the state. He warned that illegal mining activities not only deprive the state of valuable revenue but also expose host communities to environmental degradation, land damage, and safety hazards. The government reaffirmed its dedication to sustained monitoring and enforcement operations, stressing that more illegal sites would be identified and shut down if found operating outside the law.
The closure of the six sites sends a strong warning to other unregistered operators as the state intensifies efforts to restore order in the mining sector and attract legitimate investment into Niger State’s solid minerals industry. Illegal mining in the state has posed major concerns, caused communal clashes, and sparked disputes involving several communities in Mariga local government area. The government’s latest move is expected to serve as a deterrent and a step toward sustainable resource governance.
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