The Senate has called on the Federal Government to conduct a nationwide audit of licensed mining operators and their areas of operation as part of efforts to strengthen regulation and safety in the mining sector.
The lawmakers also proposed the establishment of a statutory compensation scheme for mining workers to provide support for victims of workplace accidents, occupational diseases, permanent disabilities, and families of miners who lose their lives during operations.
The resolutions followed concerns over increasing mining-related incidents, including mine collapses and landslides that have resulted in deaths, serious injuries, and long-term hardships for affected workers.
Leading the debate on the matter, Senator Isah Jibrin said many victims of mining accidents and their families are left without adequate support despite the economic contributions of the sector to the nation.
The Senate warned that unsafe mining practices, poor monitoring, and unstable geological conditions in some areas could lead to more fatalities, environmental damage, and loss of valuable mineral resources if urgent measures are not implemented.
To address the challenges, the lawmakers urged the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), in partnership with the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, to create a compulsory occupational accident insurance programme covering all categories of miners.
The proposed insurance arrangement would include artisanal and small-scale miners operating under recognised cooperatives and community mining structures.
The Senate also recommended the creation of a mine rehabilitation and victims support fund to cater for emergency medical treatment, rehabilitation, compensation, educational assistance for children of deceased miners, and livelihood support for affected families.
The upper chamber directed its committees on Solid Minerals Development, Environment, Labour, Employment and Productivity, and Health to work with relevant government agencies to ensure the implementation of the resolutions.
The lawmakers said improved oversight, safety standards, and welfare protection for miners are necessary to ensure that Nigeria’s mineral resources contribute to national development without putting workers’ lives at unnecessary risk.
The committees are expected to report back to the Senate within six weeks on progress made.
