– Lead poisoning in Zamfara linked to illegal mining
– Nigerian government tackles unsafe artisanal gold mining
– Health and environmental impact of mining in Nigeria
The Federal Government has ordered illegal miners in Zamfara State to vacate mining sites following a lead poisoning outbreak in Bungudu Local Government Area. Mining activities are suspended until Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are introduced to ensure safe practices.
Zamfara, known for its gold deposits, suffered a similar crisis in 2010 linked to artisanal mining, especially impacting children. Despite a ban lifted in late 2024, illegal mining has reportedly continued. Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, criticized local authorities for allowing unauthorized operations and called for stricter enforcement.
He praised the state government’s emergency response and announced plans to release detailed SOPs and use satellite monitoring to track mining sites and prevent future health risks.
