by Awwal Umar Kontagora Governor Umaru Bago has fulfilled his financial pledge to the victims of the mining explosion at Sabon...
by Awwal Umar Kontagora
Governor Umaru Bago has fulfilled his financial pledge to the victims of the mining explosion at Sabon Pegi community in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Sabon Pegi, the wife of the governor, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, advised residents to avoid storing harmful objects that could cause explosions, injuries, or fatalities in residential areas to prevent destruction and loss of innocent lives. She reassured the community that Governor Umaru Bago's administration remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of the people above all else.
Hajiya Fatima also took the opportunity to appreciate the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her support to the Sabon Pegi community, particularly her donation of ₦100 million to alleviate the suffering of the explosion victims. She further revealed that plans were underway to collaborate with the Ministries of Solid Minerals, Women Affairs, Humanitarian Affairs, and Disaster Management to educate the public on the dangers of unregulated mining. She noted that illegal mining activities have contributed to declining school enrollment and other social challenges in the community.
The governor's wife urged the beneficiaries to use the financial assistance and materials provided by the government wisely. In his remarks, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hon. Ahmed Baba Suleiman Yumu, expressed gratitude for the support from Governor Bago and Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He assured the public that his ministry would continue to fulfill its mandate under the governor’s leadership.
It will be recalled that during his visit to sympathize with the explosion victims, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago donated ₦174 million. The governor explained that ₦5 million would be given to individuals whose houses were completely destroyed, ₦2 million to those whose homes were partially damaged, ₦1 million to injured victims, ₦2 million to families of the deceased, and ₦1 million to those whose vehicles were affected. He stated that the cash donations were intended to provide relief to the victims and announced the establishment of a committee to ensure the fair and transparent distribution of funds.
Acknowledging that the area is rich in gold and lithium deposits, he noted that it has become a hub for artisanal mining, which has led to increased insecurity due to the presence of explosives and firearms. He urged residents to surrender any explosives or dangerous weapons in their possession to relevant authorities for safe disposal rather than storing them in their homes.
Relief materials distributed to the victims included 50kg bags of rice, maize, salt, vegetable oil, mattresses, blankets, and other essential supplies.
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