The Federal Government has lifted the five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, citing improvements in security. The decision was announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, through his representative, Segun Tomori, during a press briefing on December 22.
“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 said.
Alake pointed out the state’s rich mineral resources, including gold, lithium, and copper, and emphasized that Nigeria stands to benefit economically from the revived mining sector. While acknowledging the initial ban’s well-intentioned goal to curb insecurity, Alake noted its unintended consequences, as illegal miners exploited the vacuum. “The previous ban, which was well-intentioned, inadvertently created a vacuum exploited by illegal miners to fleece the nation of its resources,” he explained.
Alake highlighted the reduction in insecurity due to successful security measures. “The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity,” he added. He credited the success of security operations under the Tinubu administration for enabling this change.
The minister also addressed concerns over the Memorandum of Understanding with France, clarifying that it involves capacity building, not military agreements.
