In response to the tragic mine pit collapse incident in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, the government has established a 13-member relief committee tasked with disbursing N50 million to the affected families.
During the committee’s inauguration, the Niger State Government’s Secretary, Abubakar Usman Gurara, announced that Governor Mọhammed Umar Bago has authorized the release of N50 million for the victims’ families.
Gurara stated, “The N50 million allocated for distribution has been deposited in a specified bank account, awaiting the committee’s development of a payment template for the beneficiaries.”
He outlined the committee’s terms of reference, which include identifying deceased victims, their next of kin, the injured individuals, and those involved in rescue operations for compensation in recognition of their humanitarian efforts during the crisis.
“The committee will also decide on the payment method and provide any necessary additional information. Their findings are expected to be presented to the Niger State Government upon completion of this crucial task,” Gurara added.
Emphasizing the continued prohibition on illegal mining across the state, he confirmed, “Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has instructed relevant departments to profile miners for easy identification before allowing operations to resume.”
The committee’s chairman, Abubakar Sadik Idris, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary General Services, reassured in his acceptance speech that integrity and transparency will guide the members in executing their responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Galadima Kogo’s district head, Umar Aliyu, disclosed that 14 individuals lost their lives, with 10 bodies recovered, eight individuals rescued, and several others sustaining injuries.
The committee is tasked with submitting its detailed report to the state government within three weeks.