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

The post Nigerian Government Resumes Mining Exploration in Zamfara After Security Improvements 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.