Atiku Donates ₦20m to Families of Niger Mining Tragedy Victims

Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has donated ₦20 million to families affected by the deaths of 37 suspected artisanal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

Atiku made the donation on Tuesday during a visit to Minna, where he also paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Minna, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Farouk Bahago, and former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.).

Meeting with affected families and survivors, Atiku described the deaths as a tragedy that demands truth, justice and accountability.

He said the account of a survivor, who reportedly described overcrowding and severe conditions in detention, was particularly disturbing.

Atiku said the incident also highlights the poverty and economic pressures pushing young Nigerians into dangerous livelihoods.

He called for greater investment in young people through education, skills development and job creation.

The former Vice President also reiterated his proposal for a targeted production subsidy on petroleum products refined in Nigeria, saying the policy would support domestic refining and help reduce the cost of living.

Atiku said government reforms should ultimately be measured by their impact on ordinary Nigerians and their ability to make life more affordable.