By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers is set to inaugurate the newly elected leadership of the union in Magama Local Go...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers is set to inaugurate the newly elected leadership of the union in Magama Local Government Area of Niger State.
Speaking after receiving the credentials of the incoming executives, the Niger State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Musa Adamu Nasko, emphasized the importance of establishing local government structures in line with national and state frameworks.
“By law, after the federal and state executive councils are formed, local government leadership must follow. With the support of the Niger State Government under the administration of Dr. Umar Mohammed Bago, we have developed a strategic plan to enhance our operations. Just as we have inaugurated executives at the state level, we are now extending this structure to the local governments,” he said.
Comrade Nasko noted that the union has already inaugurated leadership in several local governments and is now finalizing preparations to officially swear in the Magama LGA leadership, having adhered to all internal rules and legal requirements.
He called on all miners in the area to align with the union's objectives and follow national and state mining laws, stressing that benefits in the mining sector can only be accessed through legal membership and active participation in the union.
Also speaking, the Union's State Auditor, Alhaji Yahaya Anfani, expressed satisfaction with the electoral process that led to the emergence of the Magama LGA executives.
“After my investigation, I can confirm that all proper procedures were followed in the selection of the Magama leadership. I recommend their immediate inauguration, as required by union regulations. I also urge all miners to support their new leaders, who will work to protect and promote their rights,” he stated.
Hajiya Maryam Ibrahim, the Woman Leader of the union, emphasized the increasing participation of women in the mining industry in Magama.
“In the past, women were marginalized when it came to earning a living in this sector. But today, we stand shoulder to shoulder with our male counterparts. I pledge to uphold the law and ensure all mining regulations are strictly followed. We appreciate the efforts of the Niger State Government in supporting our industry,” she said.
Comrade Usman Bashi Garafuni, the sole candidate for the chairmanship position in Magama, appealed to union members to support his bid for leadership.
“I urge you to cast your votes or endorse me for fair and accountable leadership. Your unity and support will strengthen our resolve to do the right thing. When it comes to mining in Niger State, Magama is not only one of the earliest but also one of the most significant contributors to state revenue and youth employment,” he said.
Garafuni also called on security agencies to collaborate with the union in enforcing compliance with government regulations, including proper registration of miners.
“We must ensure that every miner is registered at the union level and operates within the framework set by the government. This is the only way to clean up the sector and ensure long-term benefits,” he added.
The inauguration ceremony is expected to formally integrate the Magama Local Government executives into the broader structure of the Nigeria Union of Mine Workers in Niger State.
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