By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Niger State chapter of the National Union of Mining Workers (NUMW) has declared its full support for the recen...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Niger State chapter of the National Union of Mining Workers (NUMW) has declared its full support for the recently established state Taskforce, which is aimed at enhancing revenue generation in the mining sector.
During a press briefing in Minna, the Chairman of the NUMW, Comr. Musa Adamu Nasko, lauded the initiative and called on union members and business operators to cooperate with the newly appointed revenue collection consultants.
“The state government has entrusted revenue collection to two companies: MARUFAWA Concept and Project Limited, responsible for Chanchaga, Shiroro, Munya, Bosso, and Suleja local governments, while KIFFMA will oversee Magama, Mashegu, and Rijau,” Nasko explained. “We urge our members and market traders, particularly in Minna, to work with these companies, as they are here to support the development of the state.”
Nasko emphasized that the union is committed to cooperating with any initiative that promotes development and increases the state's revenue, as long as it operates within legal and transparent frameworks.
“There are over 500 mining companies in Niger State, yet fewer than 200 have formally engaged with the government. We believe the work of these consultants will help uncover the gaps and improve monitoring and revenue generation,” Nasko added.
He also highlighted the state's recent move to lift restrictions on the mining sector, under specific conditions. “The government has lifted certain embargoes, and with the right support, the Taskforce will be able to ensure compliance and prevent interference in legal mining activities,” he said.
Nasko praised the leadership of Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, who during the swearing-in ceremony of the Taskforce, reiterated the need for all registered companies to identify themselves with the state government for security reasons. The chairman assured that NUMW would continue to play its role in ensuring that all mining operators comply with government regulations.
Looking ahead to the upcoming local government leadership elections within the NUMW, Nasko announced that nomination forms would be available at the union’s secretariat starting from September 19, 2024.
In closing, Comr. Nasko expressed gratitude to Governor Umaru Bago for his continued support of the mining industry and for easing restrictions. He urged union members to remain supportive of the government’s efforts and pledged NUMW’s cooperation with the revenue collection consultants to ensure smooth operations without disruption.
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