The Nigerian government has developed mining guidelines for Zamfara to ensure transparency and leverage high gold prices. The recent lifting of a five-year mining ban has led to the establishment of operational procedures and the appointment of marshals to combat illegal mining activities. The government aims to strengthen legal mining and boost national revenue.
The federal government of Nigeria has established guidelines for gold mining in Zamfara to improve transparency and take advantage of the current high gold prices, exceeding $3,000 per ounce. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced this during a press briefing to mark the first anniversary of mining marshals’ operations, aimed at curbing illegal activities in the sector.
In December 2024, the government lifted a five-year ban on mining in Zamfara, leading to the formation of a committee tasked with creating a standard operating procedure for mining activities. Alake explained that these procedures serve as a code for operations within the state, ensuring that licensed operators can work without hindrance.
Alake sought support from Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police, and Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, ensuring that legitimate operations would not be obstructed by crime. Mining marshals are responsible for tracking mineral movements, enforcing regulations, and conducting checkpoints to prevent smuggling.
The Nigerian government is taking significant steps to regulate gold mining in Zamfara amidst rising global gold prices. By establishing guidelines, lifting the mining ban, and deploying marshals to combat illegal activities, Nigeria aims to strengthen its mining sector and enhance national revenue. The recovery of mining sites from illegal miners and the commitment to legal operations signal a focused approach to maximizing the benefits of the mining industry.
Original Source: www.thecable.ng