FG deploys rescue team to Zamfara after mine collapse kills 13

The Federal Government has moved to contain the fallout of a mine pit collapse in Jabaka Village, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, which claimed the lives of at least 13 itinerant miners.

The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development confirmed that federal mine officers were deployed immediately to lead rescue operations following the collapse, which was triggered by heavy rainfall and worsened by the activities of illegal miners. Two more miners remain trapped, with efforts underway to recover them.

Dele Alake, minister of Solid Minerals Development, described the incident as “avoidable and unfortunate,” stressing that the site would be sealed after the ongoing rescue operations.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the mine sits on loose, gold-bearing sand, exploited by illegal miners using rudimentary tools and unsafe methods.

Alake linked the tragedy to the broader challenge of illegal mining, which has plagued Zamfara and other parts of the country.

He noted that since the deployment of the Mining Marshals over a year ago, over 300 illegal miners have been arrested across 10 states and the FCT, while 98 illegal sites have been shut down.

“Despite our vast land mass, we remain undaunted. With satellite surveillance and other enforcement measures underway, we aim to drastically reduce mine collapses across the country and tighten the noose around sponsors of illegal mining,” Alake said.

The Minister disclosed that the government is investing in satellite surveillance systems to enable real-time monitoring of mining activities nationwide.

The move is expected to strengthen oversight, deter illegal operations, and enhance proactive responses to emergencies.

Zamfara remains a focal point in Nigeria’s mining sector due to its rich deposits of gold and history of insecurity.

Following military clearance operations coordinated by the National Security Adviser, the Federal Government lifted the ban on exploration in December 2024, paving the way for regulated mining activities.

The latest tragedy underscores the urgency of ongoing reforms as the Tinubu administration seeks to sanitize the solid minerals sector, reduce mining-related fatalities, and restore investor confidence in the industry.