FG lifts ban on mining in Zamfara, says illegal miners exploited ban
By Matthew Denis, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, cited significant improvements in the security situation across the state since the ban was imposed more than five years ago.
Speaking at a press conference over the weekend, Dr. Alake acknowledged that the original intent of the ban was well-meaning, but it inadvertently created a vacuum that illegal miners exploited, depriving the nation of its resources.
He emphasised that the country has much to gain from reviving economic activities in Zamfara, a state rich in mineral resources such as gold, lithium, and copper. Alake further highlighted the immense potential the state holds for contributing to national revenue.
It will be recalled that in 2019, the federal government imposed a complete ban on mining activities in Zamfara State due to escalating security concerns, particularly the links between banditry and illegal mining.
However, since the beginning of the Tinubu administration, intelligence-driven and coordinated security operations have resulted in the neutralisation of key bandit commanders, significantly reducing incidents of insecurity. A notable success was the capture of one of the most wanted bandit commanders, Halilu Sububu, in a covert operation in Zamfara.
“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The security forces’ progress has led to a marked reduction in insecurity, and with the ban on exploration lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool,” Alake asserted.
The Minister added that the lifting of the ban would also facilitate better regulation of mining activities in the state, enabling more effective intelligence gathering to combat illegal mining and ensuring the country benefits from Zamfara’s rich mineral resources.
Dr. Alake commended members of the press for their role in promoting reforms and initiatives from the Ministry throughout 2024. He acknowledged that the media has been a key ally in efforts to sanitise the mining sector and promote market reforms, which have made the industry more attractive to both indigenous and foreign investors.
Regarding the recent controversy surrounding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, Alake reaffirmed the Federal Government’s position that the agreement does not entail Nigeria relinquishing control over its mineral resources or entering into any military pact with France. He emphasised that Nigeria’s military remains fully capable of safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
“The key focus of the MOU is on training and capacity building for our mining professionals. We need all the assistance we can get in terms of capacity, technical, and financial support from abroad, and this is not the first MOU we have signed. We have similar agreements with Germany and Australia. Deliberately spreading misinformation, despite the facts, is uncalled for,” the Minister stressed.
Dr. Alake also urged the media to continue playing a vital role in educating the public about government policies to prevent ignorance, mischief, and the spread of misinformation.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Minister hinted at upcoming policy initiatives aimed at revitalising the mining sector. He revealed that the Ministry plans to further consolidate reforms, enhance the enabling environment for investments, and continue efforts to reposition the sector for long-term, sustainable growth.
