Niger Assembly Seeks Stakeholder Input on Bill to Regulate Scavenging Activities

The Niger State House of Assembly has invited stakeholders to contribute to a public hearing on a Private Member’s Bill aimed at regulating scavenging, old metal trading, and Panteka businesses in residential areas.

Sponsored by Hon. Murtala Adamu Badaru, the bill seeks to prohibit unregulated scavenging and scrap metal operations within residential neighbourhoods to ensure safety and public order.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, represented by Hon. Abubakar Suleiman Gomna, emphasized the importance of stakeholder participation in crafting legislation that balances economic benefits with public safety.

“While these businesses provide employment and contribute to recycling, unregulated practices have led to theft, trespassing, environmental hazards, and general public nuisance,” he said during the public hearing.

The session, organised by the Joint House Committees on Environment and Climate Change, and Judiciary and Legal Matters, brought together representatives from the police, the Ministry of Environment, and the Association of Scrap Dealers.

In his welcome address, Hon. Mohammed Nura Garba, Deputy Majority Leader and chairman of the joint committees, highlighted that the proposed law seeks to create a safer and healthier environment for residents.

Stakeholders commended the Assembly’s proactive approach and pledged their support for the swift passage of the bill into law.