The Federal Government has lifted the five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, aiming to boost the local economy and tackle security challenges.
The was disclosed in a statement by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, via X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.
Imposed in 2021, the mining ban sought to curb the rise in banditry and illegal mining, which were seen as drivers of insecurity and sources of funding for criminal groups.
Alake noted that the 2019 ban, initially introduced to tackle security issues linked to illegal mining and banditry, unintentionally enabled unregulated operators to exploit the state’s mineral resources.
Zamfara has long been known for its rich deposits of gold and other valuable minerals, drawing local and international interest.
However, the mining ban disrupted legitimate operations, leaving the region’s economy vulnerable.
Meanwhile, illegal mining persisted, causing environmental damage and polluting water sources in several communities.
“With the lifting of the ban, Zamfara’s mining sector can now contribute meaningfully to national revenue while enabling better regulation and combating illegal operations more effectively,” Alake stated.
He added that the security threats to lives and property, which necessitated the ban, have significantly reduced.
“The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in insecurity. With the ban lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool,” he said.
Alake commended the Tinubu administration’s security initiatives, emphasizing intelligence-driven and coordinated operations that have dismantled key bandit networks.
He highlighted the recent covert capture of Halilu Sububu, one of Zamfara’s most notorious bandit leaders, as a testament to the success of these renewed strategies.
He stated that with collaboration between government agencies, intelligence gathering, and security strategies led by the National Security Adviser, the Federal Government is prepared to restart mining activities while ensuring the safety of lives and property in Zamfara.
