Update: Mining Explosion Kills 33 in Plateau, Nigeria, Triggers Emergency Response
Hussaini Ibrahim 
PLATEAU, Nigeria – At least 33 people die after a deadly explosion rip through a mining tunnel in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigerian authorities confirm.
The Plateau State Government says the blast occurs while dozens of miners work underground, triggering an urgent rescue and recovery operation. Emergency responders race to the scene as injured survivors are rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, says the government receives the report “with deep shock and profound sadness,” confirming that 33 miners are inside the tunnel at the time of the explosion.
“The government is deeply concerned and is working closely with security agencies, emergency responders and health authorities to bring the situation under control,” Ramnap says.
She urges residents to remain calm and cooperate with officials as rescue teams secure the area and prevent further casualties. Authorities cordon off the site, reportedly operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited, as investigations begin.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear. However, safety experts repeatedly warn that illegal and poorly regulated mining operations across Nigeria expose workers to fatal risks, including gas buildup, structural collapse and explosive mishandling.
Mining-related accidents continue to claim lives in Plateau State, a region rich in solid minerals but plagued by weak enforcement and informal operations.
Security personnel maintain a presence at the site while medical teams continue treating survivors. Officials say further updates will follow as investigations progress.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwatobi Adu 