Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has urged Muslim and Christian leaders in the state to join hands with the government in waging war against illegal mining by preaching against teenage and underaged children's involvement in mining activities. He made the plea on Tuesday while granting an audience to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Niger state chapter, who visited him to condole over the deaths of 37 artisans in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) custody.
The condolence visit by CAN was led by the state CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Yohanna Bulus, who expressed deepest condolences to Governor Bago and the relatives of the victims, describing the death of the 37 young artisanal miners as wanton and tragic. The CAN chairman commended the Governor for prioritizing human lives over politics, citing his decision to postpone the re-election campaign flag-off.
Governor Bago told the Christian delegation that basic and secondary education is free in Niger state, and encouraged clerics to preach to parents to take advantage of this opportunity to encourage their wards to concentrate on their education instead of joining mining activities. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure that children enroll in schools and become better citizens.
The Governor pointed out that primary and secondary education has always been free in Niger state, and will continue to be so. He therefore urged parents not to deny their children the opportunity to acquire education. Governor Bago also assured that the government will investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the 37 youngsters in NSCDC confinement.
Governor Bago described the tragedy as avoidable, but attributed it to lack of professionalism on the part of NSCDC officers. He vowed to ensure that the matter is pursued to its logical conclusion. The Governor's decision to investigate the incident was commended by CAN, which described it as a demonstration of his commitment to human life.
The delegation on the condolence visit included the former state CAN Chairman, Rev. (Dr.) Mathias Echioda, who offered prayers for the victims and their families. The CAN chairman spoke through his Deputy, Rev. Joshua Marcus, who expressed appreciation for the Governor's humane response to the tragedy.
Governor Bago's call to clerics to preach against teenage mining is part of efforts to address the issue of artisanal mining in Niger state. The Governor's initiative aims to discourage children from engaging in mining activities and encourage them to pursue education instead. The government has also announced plans to provide free education to all children in the state.
Key points
- Governor Bago urges clerics to preach against teenage mining
- 37 artisanal miners died in NSCDC custody
- Niger state government prioritizes education, makes it free for all children
