Kehinde Fajobi
The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, five years after its implementation.
This was announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, in a press briefing on Sunday, as conveyed by his spokesman, Segun Tomori.
The government attributed the decision to improvements in the security situation across the state.
“The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state,” the statement read.
Alake emphasised the economic potential of the state, noting that Zamfara is rich in gold, lithium, and copper.
“Nigeria has a lot to gain from reawakened economic activities in a highly mineralised state like Zamfara,” he said.
He further explained that although the ban was initially intended to address security concerns, it had inadvertently created a vacuum for illegal miners to exploit the nation’s resources.
“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated,” Alake noted.
“Security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity, and with the ban on exploration lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool.”
Alake highlighted the success of intelligence-driven, coordinated security operations under the Tinubu administration, citing the capture of a key bandit commander, Halilu Sububu, in a recent operation.
The minister also stressed that lifting the ban would improve the regulation of mining activities in the state and facilitate better intelligence gathering to combat illegal mining.
Alake commended the media for its role in promoting reforms in the mining sector, which have made it more attractive to investors.
He also addressed concerns about a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, clarifying that it does not entail relinquishing control over Nigeria’s mineral resources or entering a military pact.
“The high point of the MOU is on training and capacity building for our mining professionals,” Alake explained.
“We need all the assistance we can get in terms of capacity, technical, and financial support from abroad.”