The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called for increased collaboration between stakeholders in the solid minerals sector and the National Parks Service following the tragic deaths of 22 people in a mine pit collapse in the Gashaka-Gunti National Park, Adamawa State. The incident, attributed to illegal mining activities, has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures and regulatory enforcement.

Dr. Alake, in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, emphasized that the Ministry is actively monitoring the aftermath of the incident. The collapse occurred due to unregulated mining by artisanal miners who lack the professional skills necessary for safe mining practices. Field inspections confirmed that the lack of expertise was a key factor in the pit’s failure.

In response to the growing threat of illegal mining in national parks, the Minister called for greater cooperation between the solid minerals sector and the National Parks Service. He urged those involved in illegal mining to cease their risky activities and instead form cooperatives, seek licenses, and operate within the legal framework provided by the Ministry.

Dr. Alake reminded the public that the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act prohibits mineral exploration in national parks to protect the country’s forests, plants, and wildlife. He also pointed out that the Ministry had previously discussed strategies with the National Parks Service to curb mining in protected areas, urging officers to report any unlawful mining activities to the nearest Federal Mines Officer.

To prevent further tragedies, the Minister stressed the importance of local government involvement in monitoring illegal mining. He called on local authorities to collaborate with the Ministry to strengthen early warning systems and take proactive measures.

In addition, Dr. Alake highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to raise awareness through radio programs on the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria and the Voice of Nigeria. These programs, which are also translated into nine Nigerian languages, aim to educate the public about the dangers of illegal mining and promote the formation of mining cooperatives.

Earlier this year, more than 50 miners tragically lost their lives in a similar incident in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, where a 400-meter-deep mining pit collapsed, trapping miners for over four weeks before their deaths. Dr. Alake’s statement serves as a call to action for both government agencies and local communities to prioritize safety and sustainability in the mining sector.