Niger North Senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Distinguished Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, has called for increased public sensitization on safer mining practices following a devastating dynamite explosion in the Sabon Pegi community of Mashegu Local Government Area, Niger State. The explosion claimed lives, left several injured, and caused widespread property destruction.
Leading a high-powered delegation on Wednesday, Senator Bello was joined by Niger State Governor, H.E. Rt. Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, Minister of Information and National Orientation, H.E. Mohammed Idris Malagi, and other key dignitaries, including lawmakers and traditional rulers.
Addressing the community, Senator Bello stressed the urgent need for education on mining safety, noting that many miners lack formal training.
The tragic incident serves as a wake-up call for increased public sensitization, responsible governance, and stricter safety regulations in Nigeria’s booming mining sector.
“A significant number of the people involved in mining are not formally educated. I believe that with proper education, they can be trained to adopt best practices in their mining activities. Unfortunately, this tragedy has occurred, but we hope it serves as a lesson for all.”
He further highlighted the dangers posed by unsafe mining activities and the improper handling of explosives.
“We are here to commiserate with the community and those who have lost loved ones. More must be done to sensitize the people. I heard the Minister of Information mention the involvement of the National Orientation Agency in this effort. While we cannot completely stop people from mining, because doing so would be unrealistic, we can educate them on safer practices.
Governor Umaru Bago also extended his condolences to the victims and urged residents to cooperate with the state government’s responsible mining policy. He called for the surrender of explosives and hazardous materials to a designated committee comprising security agencies, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
“Beyond the explosives often stored in homes, there is also the issue of river pollution in Sabon Pegi, where people clean gold. Over time, these carcinogenic elements can pose serious health risks. As the government promotes mining to boost revenue, it is imperative to educate the populace on best practices to ensure safer mining. With the efforts we are making, I hope we can prevent such incidents in the future. Unfortunately, this tragedy has occurred, and while we cannot undo it, we must remain vigilant and pray it does not happen again.”
Relief Efforts and Financial Support
Government Calls for Safe Mining Practices
“Keeping such dangerous materials in homes is a recipe for disaster,” he warned, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, H.E. Mohammed Idris Malagi, assured the community of the federal government’s support, emphasizing the role of the National Orientation Agency in raising awareness.
“This tragedy underscores the urgent need for continuous awareness and education. We must work collectively to prevent such incidents in the future.”
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Senator Sani Bello donated ₦50 million to victims, while Governor Umaru Bago contributed ₦174 million, reinforcing government efforts to rebuild the community and enhance safety measures.
