Seven workers rescued from collapsed mining site in Niger state

Seven workers have been rescued from a collapsed mining pit in the Galadima Kogo community under Shiroro LGA in Niger State. 

The mining site, which belongs to African Minerals and Logistics Limited, collapsed on Monday after a heavy downpour, trapping an unconfirmed number of mine workers.

In a statement on Tuesday, Segun Tomori, special assistant on media to Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, said the trapped workers were rescued after the federal government mobilised first responders to the scene of the incident.

Tomori said a rescue operation is still underway to ensure the safety of other workers still trapped in the mine pit.

“Upon learning of the incident, we mobilised our Federal Mines Officer (FMO) and officials of the Mines Inspectorate to the site,” the statement reads.

“In collaboration with the mining company, we have rescued seven victims, some with injuries. Rescue operations with excavators are ongoing to ensure we avert the loss of lives.

“The minister is actively monitoring the situation at the mining site operated by African Minerals and Logistics Ltd.

“He assures Nigerians of the federal government’s resolve to investigate the remote causes of the disaster to prevent a recurrence.”