Niger State Raises Alarm Over Use of Children in Illegal Mining Sites

The Niger State Government has expressed deep concern over the widespread involvement of children and mothers in illegal mining activities across various sites in the state, particularly around Minna, the state capital.

Investigations by Arewa PUNCH revealed that numerous underage children are regularly seen at these illegal mining locations, digging and searching for precious stones in hazardous conditions. Many of the children have reportedly dropped out of school in pursuit of the meagre income offered by the mining operations.

In response, the state government has initiated a crackdown on these unregulated sites, citing concerns over the loss of state revenue and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.

During a recent inspection carried out by the Ministry of Mineral Resources, led by the Commissioner, Garba Yahaya, underage children and women were seen actively mining with hoes, shovels, and pans. The inspection team, which also included the Permanent Secretary and Directors from the ministry, visited key illegal mining hotspots including Tungan Goro and Chanchaga.

At Tungan Goro, located under a bridge near the Army Barracks, the team discovered mining pits filled with children and women, exposing them to physical risks and environmental hazards. The miners were subsequently dispersed by officials.

In Chanchaga, behind the police station near the main bridge, evidence of illegal activity was found even though miners had fled before the team arrived. Construction supervisors working on a nearby road project confirmed that children often scavenge excavation waste for minerals.

A Chinese site supervisor, Mr. Li, noted repeated invasions by illegal miners despite efforts to deter them, raising concerns over safety and project disruption.

Garba Yahaya further disclosed that local leaders have attempted to intervene. The Chairman of Butchers in Chanchaga said he had seized tools from the miners—mostly local children—but was unsure of the appropriate authority to report to, noting that police typically release offenders quickly.

The Ministry of Mineral Resources has called on illegal miners to regularise their operations through proper legal channels, urging community cooperation to end the harmful exploitation of women and children.

The government pledged to intensify inspections, enforce mining regulations, and introduce measures to curb school dropouts and illegal child labour linked to the booming but dangerous mining trade.