The Nigerian Government has officially lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, ending more than five years of security-related restrictions.
This decision, announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, follows a significant improvement in the security situation across the state.
In 2019, under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the government imposed a total ban on mining operations in Zamfara due to escalating security concerns. The ban was primarily a response to the growing links between banditry and illegal mining activities, which were contributing to widespread insecurity. The state was also declared a “no-fly zone” in 2021 due to these issues.
However, speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Alake revealed that after a thorough assessment of the security situation by President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, the government has approved the resumption of mining exploration in the state.
“The Nigerian Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state. This policy reversal comes after serious security concerns initially led to the ban, particularly in relation to the solid minerals sector,” the statement read, released by Segun Tomori, the minister’s Special Assistant on Media.
Alake further emphasized that Zamfara, rich in gold, lithium, and copper, holds immense potential for contributing to the nation’s economy. He acknowledged that while the initial ban was implemented with good intentions, it inadvertently created a void that illegal miners exploited, depleting national resources.
“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The strides made by security operatives have drastically reduced insecurity, and with the lifting of the ban, Zamfara’s mining sector can begin to contribute once again to the nation’s revenue pool,” Alake asserted.
The minister also credited the Tinubu administration for its intelligence-driven, coordinated security operations that have successfully neutralized key bandit commanders, including the recent capture of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu in a covert operation in Zamfara. This, he said, was instrumental in restoring security to the region.
With the ban lifted, the government aims to regulate mining activities more effectively, preventing illegal operations and ensuring that the country benefits from the state’s rich mineral deposits. This move is expected to enhance intelligence gathering and combat illegal mining practices, thereby strengthening the formal mining sector in Zamfara.
Alake also took the opportunity to praise the media for its role in promoting reforms and initiatives within the mining sector, which have attracted both local and foreign investors. The media, he said, has been an essential ally in efforts to sanitize the sector and drive positive change.
Addressing the recent controversy over the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France, Alake reiterated that the agreement does not involve any concession of control over Nigeria’s mineral resources or a military pact. He clarified that the MoU is focused on training and capacity building for Nigerian mining professionals, with technical and financial support from international partners such as France, Germany, and Australia. He urged the media to continue its role in educating the public to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Looking ahead, the minister outlined plans for 2025, which include further policy initiatives aimed at revitalizing the mining sector, fostering investments, and ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry.
