FG Lifts 5-Year Ban On Mining Activities In Zamfara State As Security Situation Improves
The Federal Government announced the lifting of the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, ending over five years of security restrictions. This was disclosed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, during a press briefing in Abuja.
The ban, which had been in place since 2019, was imposed to address the escalating insecurity in the state. However, Alake noted that after critical monitoring and assessment of the security situation, significant improvements had been observed, including the neutralization of key bandit commanders through coordinated security operations. A notable success was the capture of one of the most wanted bandit leaders, Halilu Sububu, in a covert operation in Zamfara.
Alake emphasized that Zamfara is rich in gold, lithium, and copper, and the lifting of the ban would revitalize economic activities in the state, benefiting both Zamfara and the nation. He acknowledged that while the ban was necessary to address insecurity and protect national resources, it had also inadvertently created a vacuum that illegal miners exploited.
“President Tinubu has approved the lifting of the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara. The state has vast mineral resources, and with the abatement of security threats, the mining sector will begin contributing to the nation’s revenue,” said Alake.
He also highlighted that lifting the ban would allow for better regulation of mining activities, making it easier to combat illegal mining and ensure that the country benefits from the state’s rich resources.
Alake commended journalists covering the mining sector, acknowledging their role in promoting reforms and keeping the public informed about the administration’s efforts to diversify the economy through solid minerals.
On the recent controversy regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Nigeria and France, Alake clarified that the agreement does not involve any military pact or relinquishing control over Nigeria’s mineral resources. He explained that the MoU focuses on training and capacity building for Nigerian mining professionals, with technical and financial support from France.
“The MoU is about trade and capacity building. There is no military pact, and anyone who reads the MoU will see that it’s about developing the mining sector,” Alake stated.
He urged the media to continue educating the public on government policies to prevent misinformation and ensure clarity.
Looking ahead, Alake hinted at upcoming policy initiatives aimed at further revitalizing the mining sector. The Ministry plans to consolidate reforms, enhance the investment environment, and promote long-term sustainable growth in the sector.
