The mining sector in Nigeria is relatively new and has been marked by a number of incidences of mine pit collapses, leading to loss of human life. This is in contrast to other nations where mining is a significant part of their economies, with minimal such incidents due to stringent regulations and effective enforcement. Recent collapses in Nigeria have raised concerns among stakeholders and prompted the government to take action.
The Nigerian Mining Geosciences Society (NMGS) has urged the federal government to ensure adequate funding for mines offices across the country as a means to address illegal mining activities and prevent mining collapses. Professor Akinade Olatunji, the president of NMGS, highlighted the importance of engaging qualified staff in mines offices to ensure efficient service delivery and address the adverse effects of illegal mining on the environment and workers.
In response to these incidents, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has announced the enforcement of insurance cover for all miners nationwide. The government is also working to implement contingency plans to reduce the impact of natural disasters on mining sites. Furthermore, a three-pronged approach has been launched to combat illegal mining and prevent mining disasters through the deployment of Mining Marshals, introduction of advanced technologies, and a comprehensive sensitization campaign.
According to Prof. Akinade Olatunji, a geoscientist, thorough geological assessments prior to mining, proper mine design and planning, adequate support structures, monitoring for ground stability and subsidence, proper water management and drainage, regular inspection and maintenance of equipment, training of personnel on safety procedures, implementation of robust safety protocols, continuous monitoring and updating of mine designs, and adaptation of advanced technologies are all critical in preventing mine pit collapses.
The federal government’s efforts to enforce regulations and utilize modern technologies, along with comprehensive sensitization and training, are steps in the right direction to prevent mine pit collapses in Nigeria. With ongoing plans to attract multinational companies to the sector, there is hope that the industry can be free of illegal activities and perform better than the petroleum and gas sector with proper regulation and enforcement.
Through taking action and implementing these measures, Nigeria can work towards preventing future mine pit collapses and ensuring the safety of miners and the surrounding communities.