FG Lifts Five Year Mining Ban in Zamfara

The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, five years after its implementation.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, made the announcement during a press briefing. His spokesperson, Segun Tomori, released a statement on Sunday highlighting the rationale behind the decision.

“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.

Minister Alake emphasized the economic potential of Zamfara, describing it as a state rich in gold, lithium, and copper. He noted that reactivating mining activities in the region could significantly boost national revenue.

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“The existential threat to lives and property that led to the 2019 ban has abated. Security operatives’ strides have led to a notable reduction in insecurity. With the ban lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool,” Alake stated.

He acknowledged that the initial ban, while well-intentioned, created a vacuum exploited by illegal miners, leading to substantial losses in national resources.

Alake attributed the improved security in Zamfara to coordinated, intelligence-driven operations under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He highlighted the capture of Halilu Sububu, a notorious bandit commander, as a key victory in stabilizing the region.

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The minister underscored that lifting the ban would allow better regulation and oversight of mining activities, enhancing intelligence gathering to combat illegal operations and ensuring that the state’s mineral wealth benefits the nation.

Alake also commended journalists for their role in promoting reforms and initiatives within the mining sector. He acknowledged their contributions to making the industry more attractive to both local and international investors.

Addressing the recent controversy surrounding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, Alake clarified that the agreement does not involve ceding control of Nigeria’s mineral resources or entering into any military pact.

“The MOU focuses on training and capacity building for Nigerian mining professionals. We welcome technical and financial support from abroad and have previously signed similar agreements with Germany and Australia. Deliberate misinformation despite factual clarifications is uncalled for,” he said.

The government remains committed to leveraging Zamfara’s mineral resources to drive economic growth while ensuring strict regulation and transparency in the sector.

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