The Nigerian Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State, which had been in place for over five years due to security concerns. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced this decision following significant improvements in the local security situation. The previous ban, enacted in 2019, was a response to the rising connection between banditry and illegal mining, leading to a significant security crisis in the state.

Alake disclosed that comprehensive assessments by President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser confirmed the enhanced safety in the region, making a return to mining viable. He highlighted Zamfara’s rich resources like gold, lithium, and copper as essential for Nigeria’s economic development. The initial ban aimed to address severe security threats but inadvertently created space for illegal mining activities.

The minister praised the Tinubu government for its effective security strategies, which have notably reduced insecurity, including the successful capture of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu. With the ban’s removal, the government intends to better regulate mining operations, combat illegal operations, and ensure that Nigeria derives full benefit from its mineral wealth.

Alake also acknowledged the critical role the media plays in advancing mining sector reforms and attracting investments. Additionally, he clarified that a recent Memorandum of Understanding with France focuses on training and capacity building for mining professionals, not on ceding control over Nigeria’s resources. He called on the media to continue dispelling misinformation surrounding this initiative.

Future plans for 2025 include further policy initiatives to boost the mining industry, enhance investments, and ensure sustainable growth of the sector, aiming for revitalisation and increased contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara is significant as the state has faced severe security issues linked to illegal mining operations. This ban was initially implemented due to escalating violence and criminality in the region. With improved security, the government aims to enhance the mining sector’s potential to contribute economically while regulating operations to prevent illegal mining and resource depletion.

The Nigerian Government’s decision to end the mining exploration ban in Zamfara reflects improved security. This move aims to regulate mining more effectively while revitalising the local economy through its rich mineral resources. The government, backed by security improvements and media support, is focused on sustainable growth in the mining sector for the future.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com

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Since President Bola Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, significant efforts have been made to enhance Nigeria’s mining sector as part of his wider strategy to diversify the economy. Acknowledging Nigeria’s wealth in critical minerals vital for global energy transition, Tinubu’s administration faces the challenge that despite possessing 44 commercially viable minerals, the sector has historically underperformed in contributing to GDP.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, declared a state of emergency upon his appointment. He linked illegal mining operations to funding for banditry, hampering revenue potential. In response, the government implemented a combination of law enforcement and cooperative incentives. A dedicated security unit known as the Mining Marshals was created to ensure protection and legality in mining activities, resulting in the arrest of over 300 illegal miners. Additionally, 250 cooperatives were initiated to formalise artisanal miners’ operations.

Key policies introduced include the Value Addition Policy, designed to require mining companies to present value-adding initiatives before obtaining licences. This is supported by the inauguration of a state-of-the-art laboratory for geochemical analysis, intended to improve exploration initiatives. Recent developments include a lithium processing laboratory and a tin processing plant, signalling progress in mineral processing capabilities.

July 2024 saw the introduction of increased rates and charges for mining activities, aimed at enhancing the sector’s economic contribution and improving infrastructure. The revocation of 924 dormant mining licences aims to clean the industry and boost foreign investment. While NAITI reports GDP contributions increased from N1.66 trillion in 2022 to N1.76 trillion in 2023, there is consensus that further improvements depend on addressing state interference and over-regulation.

The government’s decision to lift the mining exploration ban in Zamfara is also seen as a step towards revenue recovery. Stakeholders advocate for mandatory local content usage in oil and gas industries to enhance national revenue further. Upcoming mining conferences underline the need for technological advancements and collaborative efforts to reinforce the sector’s growth.

While optimism surrounds Tinubu’s reforms, stakeholders emphasise the importance of consistent and actionable policies in achieving sustainable progress. The minister mentioned plans for further reforms in 2025 to build on 2024’s achievements.

Nigeria’s mining sector, endowed with 44 commercially viable minerals, has historically played a minimal role in national GDP despite its potential. President Bola Tinubu’s administration has initiated efforts to revitalise the sector, focusing on addressing illegal mining’s impact on security and economic performance. This sector transformation aims to pivot Nigeria’s economy away from a mono-cultural reliance on oil, leveraging solid minerals for sustainable growth and stability.

The revitalisation of Nigeria’s mining sector under President Tinubu aims to elevate its economic contribution by addressing illegal activities and promoting value addition. Key strategies involve both coercive measures to enforce legality and initiatives to formalise artisanal operations. Despite initial progress reflected in GDP growth, overcoming structural challenges and ensuring effective policy implementation will be crucial for long-term success and development in the sector.

Original Source: nannews.ng

The post Transforming Nigeria’s Mining Sector: Progress Under Tinubu’s Administration first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Federal Government of Nigeria will debut a new television drama series titled “Hidden Riches” on January 25, 2025, focusing on the intricacies and potential of the nation’s mining industry. Set to broadcast weekly on the Network Service of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Saturdays from 8:05 pm to 8:30 pm, the series aims to raise awareness about this crucial sector. Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasized its role in economic transformation, showcasing the narratives of various stakeholders in the mining sector.

This new series, produced by Take 7 Media, aims to illuminate the often-overlooked mining sector in Nigeria, which holds substantial opportunities for economic development. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises diversifying the economy and sustainably managing resources. Highlighting real-life challenges and opportunities faced by miners, politicians, and activists, the series seeks to engage audiences in the importance of solid minerals in Nigeria’s economic landscape.

In summary, “Hidden Riches” represents a strategic effort by the Nigerian government to shed light on the mining industry’s potential for economic growth while engaging the public with compelling storytelling. The series will serve as both entertainment and an educational tool, encouraging broader discourse on sustainable practices within Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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Nigeria has lifted a five-year suspension on mining activities in Zamfara state, allowing exploration to resume in a region rich in gold, lithium, and copper. The ban, imposed in 2019 due to rising violence from bandit attacks, crippled the local mining sector. Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dele Alake, attributed the lifting of the ban to enhanced security measures. These improvements are expected to help formalise the mining industry and contribute to government revenues as illegal mining had escalated during the suspension.

Zamfara’s mining potential is significant, but it has suffered from rampant insecurity and illegal activities amidst the ban. The Nigerian government aims to diversify its economy, heavily reliant on oil exports, by strengthening the mining sector, which currently contributes less than 1% to GDP. Initiatives include revoking inactive mining licenses, establishing a national mining company with foreign investment, and limiting unprocessed mineral exports. Recent agreements with international partners further aim to enhance Nigeria’s mining capacity.

The mining sector in Nigeria has faced substantial setbacks due to security issues, especially in Zamfara state, a key mining region. The 2019 suspension of mining exploration was a response to rampant banditry and violence that compromised safety and regulatory compliance. With the current government under pressure to diversify the economy from oil dependency, revitalising the mining sector presents a vital opportunity for economic growth and stability.

The lifting of the ban on mining explorations in Zamfara is a pivotal step towards restoring order in the mining sector, contributing to economic diversification and enhancing state and national revenues. With improved security and international collaboration, Nigeria aims to transform its mining industry, which could play a significant role in the national economy moving forward.

Original Source: www.chemanalyst.com

The post Nigeria Resumes Mining in Zamfara After Five-Year Suspension first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian Government has officially lifted the five-year prohibition on mining operations in Zamfara State. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced this decision, attributing it to substantial improvements in the state’s security situation. With Zamfara rich in gold, lithium, and copper, the government aims to enhance economic activities that had been negatively impacted by illegal mining operations during the ban. Alake noted the enhanced security efforts have led to a decline in violence, enabling a safer environment for mining. Moreover, he emphasised that the new measures will allow for improved regulation and oversight, ensuring that the nation benefits maximally from Zamfara’s mineral wealth. The Minister also reassured that a recently discussed agreement with France focused solely on training and capacity building for local mining experts.

The ban on mining in Zamfara was first imposed in 2019 due to escalating security threats from banditry and illegal mining activities that led to violence and loss of resources. Zamfara State is noted for its rich mineral deposits, making the lifting of the ban significant for Nigeria’s economy. The government aims to balance resource extraction with safety and regulation following several improvements in security measures undertaken by security agencies.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara marks a crucial step in revitalising the state’s economy and harnessing its mineral resources. With improved security and a focus on regulating the mining sector, Nigeria is poised to benefit economically. The government’s assurance regarding international agreements further underscores its commitment to developing the mining industry responsibly.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigeria Lifts Five-Year Ban on Mining in Zamfara State After Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Federal Government has mandated the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) to enhance its performance within a 90-day timeframe, or face penalties. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, expressed dissatisfaction with the committee’s ability to mediate between stakeholders in the mining sector, failing to fulfill its statutory obligations. Under the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, MIREMCO is meant to oversee compliance among operators with environmental regulations, which has evidently not been the case. Dr. Alake warned that failure to meet expectations would prompt federal intervention to restore effective management of mineral resources in Nigeria.

The government is also focusing on bolstering the mining sector by establishing six mineral centres across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. This initiative accompanies a new policy aimed at ensuring that mineral extraction activities contribute maximum value to the economy by enforcing that mining applications include plans for local processing and value addition. Ongoing challenges such as limited active mining projects and funding constraints were highlighted by the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom.

The Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) is a regulatory body under the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, tasked with ensuring compliance and mediating between stakeholders, including local communities and mining operators. Currently, there are issues surrounding its effectiveness, which has resulted in governmental dissatisfaction. In addition, the Nigerian government aims to improve the mining sector significantly, seeking to add local value to extracted resources and develop local industries to tackle economic losses.

The Federal Government’s ultimatum to MIREMCO aims to enhance oversight and compliance in the mining sector, reflecting a commitment to effectively manage Nigeria’s mineral resources. With a 90-day deadline set for improvements, the initiative underscores the need for strong institutional frameworks and policies that promote local value addition, which will ultimately benefit the economy and local communities.

Original Source: nairametrics.com

The post Federal Government Issues 90-Day Ultimatum to MIREMCO for Performance Improvement first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria recently held a three-day conference to commemorate National Mining Week as part of efforts to boost the country’s mining sector. With rising global demand for minerals, the government aims to attract investments and local processing for mined materials. Noteworthy initiatives include requiring new investors to establish local processing plants and a crackdown on illegal mining activities. Authorities have announced the deployment of the Mining Marshal Corps, with over 300 illegal miners apprehended, highlighting ongoing challenges in the sector, which currently contributes a mere 0.77% to GDP.

The Nigerian mining industry boasts over 40 mineral deposits, including tin, iron ore, lead, zinc, and gold. However, illegal exploitation and insufficient local revenue generation hinder growth. The government seeks to address these issues through improved regulations, local manufacturing incentives, and increased surveillance to combat illegal mining, which has become rampant amid security challenges in the region.

While Nigeria’s government is taking steps to foster growth in the mining sector, significant challenges remain. The push for local processing is a key strategy, but experts suggest that without serious commitment from the authorities, the sector will continue to underperform. Enhancing local revenue generation and controlling illegal mining are crucial for unlocking the industry’s potential.

Original Source: www.voanews.com

The post Nigeria’s Mining Week Highlights Efforts to Revive the Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Kebbi State Government in Nigeria has refuted claims of illegal mining in Libata village within the Ngaski Local Government Area. Commissioner Haliru Muhammad Wasagu addressed these allegations during a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi, stating that Governor Nasir Idris’ administration has implemented significant reforms in the mining sector to enforce compliance with regulations. He clarified that only the Federal Government can issue mining licenses, as solid minerals are governed by the Exclusive Legislative List. Wasagu announced that efforts to curb illegal mining have been intensified to improve security in the region, driven by the absence of corporate social responsibility from mining firms. He mentioned that seven mining companies have been authorised to operate in Libata under stringent protocols. Further clarifying the situation in Libata, Wasagu revealed that Three Crowns Company holds a license for 5.4 square kilometres, with a fraction designated to El-Tahdam Exploration Limited. Both companies have successfully completed the necessary registration and licensing at both state and federal levels.

The statement from the Kebbi State Government addresses mounting concerns over illegal mining activities, which have been linked to security challenges and the neglect of corporate social responsibility by mining operators. The government is working to regulate the mining sector more effectively and clarify existing licensing requirements, emphasizing that any violations or illegal operations will not be tolerated under the current administration. This response highlights the conflict between local community needs and mining operations, especially in resource-rich areas like Ngaski.

The Kebbi State Government firmly rejects allegations of involvement in illegal mining and is committed to reforming the mining sector. This includes stringent regulations on licensed companies and a focus on corporate social responsibility. The government’s swift actions demonstrate its intent to safeguard both the local communities and the environment in the wake of rising concerns over illegal practices.

Original Source: von.gov.ng

The post Kebbi State Government Denies Illegal Mining Claims in Libata first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government has made significant strides in combating illegal mining, arresting nearly 300 illegal miners in just eight months since the launch of the Mining Marshals. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, reported these developments during a briefing with the House Committee on Solid Minerals. The Mining Marshals, inaugurated in March 2024, form a specialized security force tasked with protecting the nation’s mining operations from illegal activities. With over 2,000 trained marshals deployed to various sites, the initiative has already led to a noticeable reduction in unauthorized mining activities, positively impacting local communities and enhancing the country’s reputation in the global mining sector. Alake emphasised that the renewed security measures are critical for both safeguarding mining sites and attracting investors keen on reliable partnerships, laying the groundwork for increased domestic mineral processing and value addition.

Illegal mining has posed serious threats to Nigeria’s economy and community safety, prompting the government to take action. The establishment of the Mining Marshals aims to address these issues through increased security and enforcement measures. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector, mitigating illegal activities, and ensuring a more stable environment for potential investors. Furthermore, focusing on in-country mineral processing can help Nigeria retain greater wealth from its natural resources.

In summary, the Nigerian government’s formation of the Mining Marshals has led to the arrest of nearly 300 illegal miners in eight months, marking a significant step towards regulating the mining sector. The initiative strengthens security frameworks and fosters a more stable mining environment, crucial for attracting investment and promoting domestic mineral value addition practices. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for similar efforts across Africa.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

The post Nigeria Arrests Nearly 300 Illegal Miners Through Mining Marshals Initiative first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced that nearly 300 illegal miners have been apprehended since the introduction of mining marshals in March. This initiative, aimed at securing mining sites, has involved the deployment of over 2,000 trained marshals from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to combat theft and illegal activities. Alake highlighted that this effort has led to a significant reduction in unauthorized mining and has fostered interest from international investors in the Nigerian mining sector.

Illegal mining has been a persistent issue in Nigeria, undermining local communities and posing risks to the country’s mining industry. To address these challenges, the Nigerian government established mining marshals, a security team designed to enforce mining laws and reduce illicit activities. Following the deployment of these marshals, there has been a notable crackdown on illegal mining operations, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing security and attracting investment in the mineral sector.

The Nigerian government’s crackdown on illegal mining through the deployment of trained marshals appears to be yielding positive results. With almost 300 illegal miners arrested, the initiative demonstrates a firm commitment to securing mining sites, promoting investment, and retaining wealth through local processing. This strategy not only combats illegal activities but also positions Nigeria as a leader in setting mining standards across Africa.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

The post Nigeria Arrests Nearly 300 Illegal Miners Following Security Initiative first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.