The Nigerian Senate has directed the federal government and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to perform a thorough audit of all licensed miners and their operational sites to improve oversight. This move follows growing alarm over safety and environmental dangers related to coal mining in Kogi State, specifically within the Ankpa region.
Lawmakers proposed the creation of a mandatory Mining Workers’ Compensation Scheme. This fund would be sustained by required contributions from licensed companies to cover medical expenses, disabilities, and fatalities among staff. Additionally, the Senate requested that the National Insurance Commission design a compulsory accident insurance policy for all miners, including those in small-scale and artisanal sectors. A further proposal includes a Mine Rehabilitation and Victims Support Fund to assist families and provide medical care to the injured.
Senator Isah Jibrin, who sponsored the motion, highlighted the geological instability of the Ankpa Coal Block. He noted that the use of inadequate mining techniques has led to frequent collapses. During a recent tragedy on July 14, 2026, a landslide at Alufele claimed 20 lives when a ground failure buried miners and equipment. The Senate observed a minute of silence for the victims and tasked four committees to monitor the implementation of these new safety directives within six weeks.
