Nigeria has reinstated mining exploration in Zamfara state following a five-year ban, attributed to improved security measures. Mining Minister Dele Alake announced that the decision comes after significant reductions in insecurity, promising to enable Zamfara’s valuable resources, including gold and lithium, to contribute more significantly to national revenue. During the ban, illegal mining had flourished, undermining legitimate operations and state resources.

To stimulate investment in its mining sector, which currently accounts for less than 1% of Nigeria’s GDP, the government is implementing several reforms. These include revoking inactive mining licences, allowing a 75% investor stake in a new national mining company, and enforcing stricter regulations against illegal mining. Nigeria has also begun international collaborations to enhance its mining capabilities, signing a training agreement with France. Alake emphasised the need for global support for further technical and financial assistance, referencing previous partnerships with Germany and Australia.

The mining sector in Nigeria has faced significant challenges due to security issues, particularly in the northwestern state of Zamfara, which is rich in minerals like gold and lithium. The government had to suspend mining activities in 2019 due to rampant banditry and illegal mining. As part of an economic diversification strategy away from oil dependence, Nigeria aims to develop its mining sector, which requires improved security, regulatory reforms, and international cooperation.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara marks a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector and increasing its economic contributions. With investments, regulatory reforms, and international partnerships, Nigeria aims to leverage its mineral wealth while tackling the past issues of insecurity and illegal mining practices. The focus on technical assistance and capacity building highlights the country’s commitment to revitalising this important industry.

Original Source: www.mining.com

The post Nigeria Resumes Mining in Zamfara State After Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government has refuted allegations claiming it has surrendered mining rights to France, following President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France which resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing collaboration in the mining sector. Sunday Dare, the president’s Special Adviser on Media & Public Communication, stated that the MOU focuses on joint efforts in research, training, and sustainable mining practices, denying any loss of sovereignty over Nigeria’s natural resources. Furthermore, he emphasised that the agreement seeks to reduce the environmental impact of mining while promoting economic development and diversifying critical minerals value chains within both countries.

Following Nigeria’s signing of an MOU with France to enhance the mining sector, there were widespread rumours suggesting that this agreement entailed a transfer of control to France. Such claims raised concerns about Nigeria’s sovereignty over its mining rights, prompting a need for clarification from government officials. The MOU is intended to create beneficial partnerships that advance the mining industry without compromising Nigeria’s interests or resources, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in developing critical minerals.

The Nigerian government has made it clear that it has not relinquished its mining rights to France despite the recent MOU. The agreement primarily aims at fostering collaboration in mining practices while maintaining Nigeria’s sovereignty over its resources. Officials have reiterated that the focus is on sustainable practices and enhancing the industry’s economic potential, dispelling any concerns of foreign domination in Nigeria’s mining sector.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigeria Refutes Claims of French Takeover in Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO), Obadiah Nkom, has highlighted the alarming statistic that only 1,000 out of 7,141 mining licenses are currently active. During a meeting with the House Committee on Solid Minerals led by Jonathan Gaza, he called for reforms in the sector, especially regarding mining fees and ownership of titles. Despite generating over N8 billion in revenue, the NMCO struggles with inadequate funding. Nkom noted that the office has made strides in digitisation and is working with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to tackle illegal activities. Gaza expressed concerns over the licensing process and promised to relay the issues to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for further action.

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office is responsible for regulating mining licenses in Nigeria. There has been a significant discrepancy between the number of issued mining licenses and the actual number of active mines, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the licensing process. The agency has generated substantial revenue from the sector, yet it faces challenges such as inadequate funding and the prevalence of illegal mining activities.

The discussion between NMCO leadership and the House Committee aims to address the underutilisation of mining licenses and seek necessary reforms. With a need for better funding and management of mining activities, the NMCO is striving to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Nigerian mining sector.

Original Source: gazettengr.com

The post NMCO Director General Advocates Reform for Underutilised Mining Licences first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.