The Nigerian Union of Mine Workers (NUMW) has felicitated with Muslims across the country while urging the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake and his counterpart in the Ministry of Steel Development, Prince Shuaib Abubakar Audu to save Nigerian mine workers from the dehumanising conditions they face in the workplace.
President of the Union, Comr. Hamza Mohammed made the call in a goodwill message to the ministers, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent in Abuja at the weekend.
According to the Union Leader, the human dignity of Nigerian mine workers is threatened by inhumane policies under which they are forced to labour for peanuts by foreign Miners who cart away Nigeria’s solid mineral resources. “They are impoverishing the indigenous people while carting away the mineral resources that ought to be harnessed for the economic growth and development of the very country and people who host the resources,” he stated.
“So we appeal to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake and the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaib Abubakar Audu to constitute a joint committee of the ministries to examine the state of welfare of mine workers with a view to restoring the lost dignity of Nigerian Mines Workers,” he stated.
“We are saying Eid Mubarak to the ministers, and we want them to use this period to reflect on the sorry state of mine workers, and then address it,” he stated.
“As we celebrate the blessed occasion of Eid-al-Fitr, I extend warm greetings to you and your family.”
Addressing the ministers, Hamza stated: “As a union, we take this opportunity to respectfully bring to your attention the sad state of welfare and safety of mine workers in our nation.”
“As you continue to lead the ministry, we appreciate your efforts in promoting the activities of mining.”
“We urge you to look into the challenges faced by workers at mining sites.”
“We look forward to your continued support in addressing these challenges, ensuring their safety, and improving their working conditions.”
“May Allah bless you and your family with joy, peace, and prosperity.”
