Niger government orders scrap dealers’ registration, bans under-18s from picking scraps

Add us on Google

The Niger State Government has directed scrap and waste dealers to register with its newly established scrap coordination office as part of efforts to curb vandalism and theft of public and private property.

Join the Premium Times WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.

Open in WhatsApp

Governor Mohammed Bago issued the directive during a meeting with leaders of the Scrap and Waste Dealers Association, Niger State chapter, at the Government House, Minna.

Mr Bago said the registration exercise covers all 25 local government areas and would require dealers to submit their residential and business addresses, Bank Verification Number (BVN), and National Identity Number (NIN) for effective monitoring.

He added that the government would provide biometric devices to facilitate the process, stressing that only registered and licensed dealers would be allowed to operate.

The governor also banned scrap-picking by persons under 18 years old. He warned that anyone caught with stolen items would face stiff sanctions.

The governor’s coordinator on scraps, Abdulsalam Sa’ad, commended Mr Bago for his support and urged dealers to cooperate with government policies.

READ ALSO: IPI Nigeria demands reopening of Badegi FM, threatens to list Governor Bago in Black Book

Similarly, the chairperson of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Employers, Niger State chapter, Muhammad Ali, outlined the association’s internal rules, which include screening of members, provision of guarantors, and penalties for involvement in theft.

Stay Ahead with Premium Times

Follow us on Google News and never miss breaking stories, investigations, and in-depth reporting.

Add as a preferred source on Google

Mr Bago said a final meeting with dealers will be held on Thursday. At this meeting, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Usman, will inaugurate the elected chairpersons of the association across the 25 LGAs. The chairpersons are expected to work directly with the coordinator to check the rising cases of vandalism.

According to the government, registration fees will be paid into its designated account, while forms will be issued by the scrap coordinator’s office.