Africa

Deadly Mine Explosion Hits Central Nigeria

Gas blast at a lead mining site kills dozens and leaves many injured

Newstimehub

Newstimehub

18 Feb, 2026

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A tragic gas explosion at a lead mine in central Nigeria has killed at least 38 miners, according to local officials.

The blast happened early Wednesday morning at the Kampanin Zurak mining site in Plateau State’s Bashar district. Many workers were deep underground when the explosion occurred between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m.

Local sources confirmed that 27 more people were injured and rushed to the hospital.

A nearby miner described the moment as sudden and shocking, saying people were inside the pits when the gas explosion happened without warning.

Plateau State has a long history of mining, with its capital city Jos once known as the “Tin City.” However, mining in the region has slowed down in recent years.

Sadly, Nigeria has experienced other deadly mining accidents before. Just a few months ago, 18 people died in another incident involving an illegal mine in Zamfara State.

SOURCE : TRT AFRICA