Insecurity and illegal mining activities are threatening Niger State’s solid mineral sector, with operators reporting growing challenges in mining communities. Miners said kidnappings in mineral-rich areas have forced some companies to suspend exploration activities, while millions of naira have reportedly been spent on ransom payments for abducted workers.

The worsening security situation has also raised concerns about the safety of residents and workers in affected communities. Operators say the activities of illegal miners are compounding the difficulties facing legitimate businesses and undermining efforts to develop the state’s mineral resources.

The sector’s challenges come as authorities seek to harness Niger State’s solid mineral deposits for economic development. However, persistent insecurity and unregulated mining continue to create obstacles for investors and legitimate operators seeking to explore and develop the resources.

Stakeholders have called for stronger security measures and tighter regulation of mining activities to protect communities and encourage responsible investment in the sector. They said addressing the twin problems of insecurity and illegal mining is essential to unlocking the economic potential of Niger State’s solid minerals.