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 of Nigeria and France have entered an agreement aimed at developing joint projects to enhance the value chain of critical minerals in the solid minerals sector. These minerals, including copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, are vital for clean energy technologies. This collaboration is expected to lead to the remediation of over 2,000 abandoned mining pits in Nigeria, significantly improving safety following recent tragedies involving pit collapses that claimed 65 lives.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to France. It encompasses cooperation in research, training, and student exchanges between France and Nigeria to foster knowledge transfer. Sustainable mining practices will be a priority, with initiatives designed to minimise environmental impacts, including reduced carbon emissions and water consumption.

Furthermore, the partnership involves establishing joint extraction and processing projects, supported by both public and private sector funding. The Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, highlighted that this agreement aligns with the Tinubu administration’s goals to enhance the international competitiveness of the mining sector, attracting French investments.

This agreement between Nigeria and France is strategic, focusing on the critical minerals essential for clean energy, such as lithium and cobalt. With the increasing global emphasis on sustainability in mining practices, the partnership is poised to address the pressing issues of environmental degradation and safety in mining operations. Recent mining disasters in Nigeria highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and community-focused initiatives, making this agreement particularly timely and significant for both nations.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France marks a crucial step towards advancing the solid minerals sector while ensuring sustainable practices and safety improvements. The MoU paves the way for enhanced research, training, and investments, contributing to the local economy and addressing critical environmental concerns. This partnership exemplifies international cooperation aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in the mining industry.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate on Sustainable Mining Initiatives first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the formation of a pan-African task force aimed at addressing the issue of illegal mining throughout the continent. His appeal comes in light of recent events in South Africa, where abandoned mine shafts have drawn thousands of miners, highlighting the precarious conditions they endure. Tinubu emphasises that illegal mining is depriving Africa of its critical resources, destabilising economies, and fostering criminal enterprises.

The issue of illegal mining has gained heightened attention in Africa, particularly in South Africa, where numerous miners have emerged from disused mines, facing hazardous and unsanitary conditions. This practice not only threatens safety but also represents a significant economic drain on the continent, as resources are siphoned away without regulation or benefit to local populations. Tinubu’s proposal seeks to unify African nations in combatting these activities and restoring the potential for lawful resource extraction to support economic growth.

In summary, President Tinubu’s call for a pan-African task force to combat illegal mining reflects a pressing need to safeguard Africa’s natural resources and bolster its economies against the detrimental impacts of informal mining practices. Addressing these issues collectively can enhance security, stability, and resource management across the continent.

Original Source: www.enca.com

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