The Nigerian government has lifted a five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State.
This decision, announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, marks a pivotal moment for the region known for its rich deposits of gold, lithium, and copper.
The ban, originally imposed in 2019 due to escalating security threats, had inadvertently led to a surge in illegal mining operations.
However, recent improvements in the security landscape have prompted the government to reconsider its stance.
"The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state," stated Minister Alake in a press release from Abuja.
Minister Alake highlighted the strategic importance of this move, emphasizing that "Nigeria has a lot to gain from reawakened economic activities in a highly mineralised state like Zamfara."
The lifting of the ban is expected to rejuvenate the state's mining sector, contributing significantly to national revenue.
The decision follows successful intelligence-driven security operations that have notably reduced insecurity in the region. A key achievement was the capture of Halilu Sububu, a notorious bandit commander, which underscored the effectiveness of these efforts.
"Since the beginning of the Tinubu administration, intelligence-driven, coordinated security operations have resulted in the neutralization of key bandit commanders," Alake noted.
The minister also pointed out that the resumption of regulated mining activities would facilitate better oversight and combat illegal mining.
This regulatory framework aims to ensure that the country fully benefits from Zamfara's abundant mineral resources.
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