KEY POINTS

• FG ends a five-year ban on mining in Zamfara due to security gains.
• Ban lift aims to combat illegal mining and boost economic growth.
• New policies focus on regulating mining and promoting sustainability.

The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State, ending a five-year suspension initially imposed to address rising insecurity. 

Announcing the decision at a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, highlighted the significant progress made in improving security across the state.

The ban, introduced in 2019, was necessary to address the activities of armed bandits exploiting Zamfara’s rich mineral deposits. 

However, with recent successes in neutralizing key bandit leaders, including the capture of Halilu Sububu, the Federal Government determined it was time to resume regulated mining activities.

“President Tinubu has approved the lifting of the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara,” Alake said. “The state has vast mineral resources, and with the abatement of security threats, the mining sector will begin contributing to the nation’s revenue.”

Economic opportunities and better regulation

Zamfara is home to abundant resources such as gold, lithium, and copper, and the resumption of mining activities is expected to significantly boost local and national economies.

According to Vanguard, Alake emphasized that lifting the ban would allow for better regulation of mining operations, curbing illegal mining and ensuring that the benefits of these resources are shared equitably.

“The previous restrictions left a vacuum that illegal miners exploited,” he explained. “Now, with proper oversight, we can ensure both the community and the country benefit from these resources.”

The minister acknowledged the role of journalists in promoting transparency and keeping the public informed about government efforts to diversify the economy through solid minerals.

Clarifying the Nigeria-France MoU

Alake also addressed concerns regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Nigeria and France, clarifying that the agreement focuses solely on capacity building for Nigeria’s mining sector.

“There is no military pact involved,” Alake assured. “The MoU is about trade and technical support to train mining professionals in Nigeria.”

Looking ahead, the government plans to introduce policy initiatives aimed at consolidating mining reforms, enhancing the investment climate, and promoting long-term growth in the sector.

The Federal Government’s decision to lift the ban represents a step forward in revitalizing Nigeria’s mining industry while addressing past challenges. 

For Zamfara, this means a new chapter of economic growth, job creation, and sustainable resource management.