The Federal Government has officially lifted the five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in security as the rationale behind the decision. This development was announced on Sunday by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, who emphasized the potential economic benefits of resuming mining operations in the state.
“The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state. Nigeria has a lot to gain from reawakened economic activities in a highly mineralized state like Zamfara that is imbued with vast gold, lithium, and copper belts,” Alake said in a statement.
The mining ban, originally introduced in 2019 under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, was a response to escalating insecurity and criminal activities in the state, including the involvement of armed groups in illegal mining. However, the Minister acknowledged that while the ban aimed to curb violence and protect lives, it inadvertently allowed illegal miners to exploit the region’s mineral resources unchecked.
“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated,” Alake explained. “Security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity. With the ban lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool.”
According to the Minister, recent security measures have been key to this improvement. He highlighted the success of intelligence-driven operations under the Tinubu administration, which have led to the neutralization of notorious bandit leaders and the dismantling of criminal networks in Zamfara. A notable milestone in these efforts was the capture of Halilu Sububu, a high-profile bandit commander, in a covert operation.
Alake further stressed that the lifting of the ban would provide an opportunity for better regulation and monitoring of mining activities, ensuring that the country fully benefits from the state’s rich mineral deposits. “The resumption of legal mining will enable more effective intelligence gathering, combat illegal mining, and create a pathway for Zamfara to contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts,” he stated.
Zamfara State is widely recognized for its abundant mineral wealth, including vast reserves of gold, lithium, and copper. Industry experts and stakeholders have welcomed the government’s decision, expressing optimism that the move will revitalize the local economy, create jobs, and attract investments to the region.
The Federal Government’s announcement marks a significant step toward harnessing Nigeria’s mineral resources for sustainable development while addressing the security challenges that have long plagued Zamfara State.
