PAGMI Reclaims Gold Mining Sites in Kebbi, Displacing Thousands of Illegal Miners
The Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI) reclaimed gold mining sites in Kebbi State following a security operation that removed thousands of illegal miners from Yauri Local Government Area. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, alongside the Department of State Services, Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Police Force, executed the operation to restore lawful mining practices.
Illegal operators had utilized heavy machinery, leading to land degradation, water pollution, and heightened insecurity. PAGMI aims to formalize artisanal mining, ensure environmental protection, and empower communities through registered cooperatives. Continuous surveillance will be maintained to prevent future illegal mining activities.
