The Federal Government has announced the lifting of the five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State.
The decision, aimed at rejuvenating the local economy and addressing the region’s security challenges, was made public by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.
The mining ban, imposed in 2021, was intended to curtail the alarming rise in banditry and illegal mining operations, which were believed to have fueled insecurity and contributed to a shadow economy that financed criminal groups.
Over the years, Zamfara became synonymous with the artisanal mining of gold and other valuable minerals, attracting both local and international attention. However, the ban stifled legitimate mining ventures and left the region’s economy in a precarious state.
Illegal mining has reportedly led to environmental degradation and pollution of several communities’ water sources.
Security situation improves
Alake explained that the earlier ban, imposed in 2019 to address security concerns tied to illegal mining and banditry, had inadvertently allowed unregulated operators to exploit the state’s resources.
“With the lifting of the ban, Zamfara’s mining sector can now contribute meaningfully to national revenue while enabling better regulation and combating illegal operations more effectively,” Alake stated.
He further noted that the existential threats to lives and property that prompted the ban have significantly diminished.
“The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in insecurity. With the ban lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool,” he said.
- Alake also praised the Tinubu administration’s security efforts, highlighting intelligence-driven and coordinated operations that have neutralized key bandit commanders.
- A recent success story was the covert capture of one of Zamfara’s most wanted bandit leaders, Halilu Sububu, an operation that underscored the effectiveness of renewed security strategies.
- He revealed that through collaboration between government agencies, intelligence gathering, and strategic security formations spearheaded by the National Security Adviser, the Federal Government is now poised to resume mining activities while ensuring the protection of lives and properties in Zamfara.
Back story
The former National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd), has disclosed that the Federal Government has placed all non-state actors under surveillance, emphasizing that it will not hesitate to employ kinetic measures to restore normalcy across the nation.
Monguno revealed that the government has approved the deployment of a significant military presence in Zamfara State and directed defense and intelligence agencies to prevent the country from descending into anarchy.
He also noted that former President Muhammadu Buhari had issued clear instructions to the newly appointed service chiefs to reclaim territories controlled by bandits, insurgents, and kidnappers.
“We will not succumb to blackmail,” Monguno stated firmly. “The government has a responsibility to assert its authority. Citizens have the right to live wherever they choose. Criminals will face the full weight of the law, and the President has cautioned against ethnic profiling. We have endured enough chaos, and anyone attempting to sow disunity must rethink their actions.”
Meanwhile, the resumption of mining activities in Zamfara State is expected to unlock significant economic potential.
- The sector, which directly or indirectly supports many livelihoods in the region, could create jobs, spur infrastructure development, and attract foreign investments.
- However, experts warn that the government must address challenges related to balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and social equity.
- Gold mining, in particular, poses significant environmental risks if not properly managed, necessitating robust regulations and oversight to mitigate its impact.
- As the federal government intensifies its efforts to combat insecurity and stimulate economic development, the onus remains on all stakeholders to ensure these initiatives lead to long-term stability and prosperity.
What you should know
- In March 2021, following the rise in banditry in Zamfara state, President Muhammadu Buhari declared Zamfara a no-fly zone and also approved a ban on mining activities in the state until further notice.
- Zamfara has vast deposits of gold, Lithium, and copper belts.