The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has directed the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to provide him with hourly briefings on seismic activities around Abuja, following reports of earth tremors that caused concerns among residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The directive is part of measures aimed at ensuring continuous assessment of the situation, with the possibility of escalating findings to other relevant government agencies if necessary.
While urging Abuja residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, Alake assured the public that proactive safety measures had been activated to protect lives and property. The minister, who is currently in Washington, DC, United States, engaging American investors on potential partnerships in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, said the government is closely monitoring developments.
The minister’s response followed an alert from the NGSA after tremors were reportedly felt in parts of Abuja on Tuesday, August 4. According to the agency’s seismic monitoring station in Utako, the tremor occurred at exactly 11:23:27 a.m., originating from a depth of about one kilometre and spreading across an estimated distance of four kilometres within five seconds.
The NGSA classified the occurrence as a minor seismic event, measuring between I and II on the Mercalli intensity scale. The agency explained that the tremor was a typical surface earth movement that did not pose any threat to lives or property, apart from the temporary discomfort and public anxiety caused by the shaking.
“The event is a characteristic feature of a surface earth tremor that poses no danger to lives and properties, except for the discomfort of the shake and fear of possible destruction,” the agency stated.
Alake reiterated that the NGSA would maintain close surveillance of seismic activities in the FCT, providing regular updates while residents are encouraged to remain calm and carry on with their normal routines.
The development highlights the government’s growing focus on strengthening geological monitoring systems in Nigeria, particularly in urban centres where population density and infrastructure exposure require timely scientific assessment and public communication.
