FG Lifts Ban on Mining in Zamfara After Five Years

The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, five years after it was imposed.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced the decision, citing “significant improvements in the security situation” in the state.

Alake stated, “The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity.”

He noted that the ban inadvertently created a vacuum exploited by illegal miners, and its lifting would facilitate better regulation of mining activities and enable the state’s mining sector to contribute to national revenue.

“The potential for Zamfara to contribute to national revenue is enormous,” Alake said. “With the ban on exploration lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool.”