Post by : Rameen Ariff

Zamfara, Nigeria, Sep 26, 2025: At least 100 miners are feared dead following a tragic collapse of a gold mining pit in Kadauri, Maru local government area, Zamfara State, Nigeria, according to local officials and survivors. The incident occurred on Thursday while scores of artisanal miners were working underground, highlighting the dangers of illegal and unregulated mining in the region.

Rescue Operations and Survivors’ Accounts
Rescue efforts continued into Friday, but the operation faced significant challenges. Muhammadu Isa, from the Zamfara State Miners Association, confirmed the collapse and reported that some rescuers also suffocated while attempting to dig out victims.

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Local resident and rescuer Sanusi Auwal that at least 13 bodies had been recovered, including that of his cousin. Survivor Isa Sani, who is receiving medical treatment for injuries, said, “Out of more than 100 people, only 15 of us were rescued alive,” underscoring the scale of the disaster.

Illegal Mining and Safety Concerns
Illegal mining is prevalent in Zamfara State, where armed gangs often control gold fields, fueling violence and deadly accidents. These artisanal mines typically lack proper safety measures, putting miners at high risk of cave-ins and other accidents. Authorities have yet to provide an official statement regarding the latest incident, but past reports indicate that Zamfara has witnessed multiple fatal mining accidents over the years.

Implications for Mining Regulation
This tragic collapse highlights the urgent need for enhanced mining safety regulations, stricter enforcement against illegal mining operations, and proper training for artisanal miners. Experts warn that without systemic reforms, illegal gold mining in Nigeria will continue to pose severe risks to human life and local communities.

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