The Federal Government has officially lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, effective immediately, after a five-year restriction due to security concerns. The decision follows significant security improvements in the state, paving the way for Zamfara to reclaim its position as a major mining hub.Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced the decision at a press briefing, highlighting Zamfara’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, lithium, and copper deposits.
Dr. Alake acknowledged the 2019 ban was necessary to curb the link between illegal mining and banditry, but noted it unintentionally enabled illicit activities that depleted national resources. The ban was first introduced to address the rising insecurity caused by illegal mining operations.
The Tinubu administration’s targeted security efforts have dismantled key bandit groups, including the capture of notorious leader Halilu Sububu, substantially reducing regional insecurity.
“Zamfara’s mining industry has vast potential to boost Nigeria’s revenue, with improved security, we can now effectively regulate mining activities and tap into these resources for national growth,” Dr. Alake said.
The ban was first introduced to address the growing insecurity linked to illegal mining operations. The Tinubu administration’s intelligence-driven efforts have dismantled key bandit groups, including the capture of notorious leader Halilu Sububu, leading to a significant decrease in regional insecurity.”The security threats that led to the ban have been mitigated, given the security milestones achieved, Zamfara’s mining sector can now resume, enabling the state to make significant contributions to national revenue,” Dr. Alake added.
The ban’s removal is anticipated to facilitate improved regulation, intelligence gathering, and the prevention of illicit mining activities.The decision is also expected to draw local and international investors, boosting economic growth and job creation in the region.
Source : https://independent.ng/
