Federal Government Lifts Ban On Mining In Zamfara Five Years After
By Juliet Vincent
The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining in Zamfara State after over five years of restrictions.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake made the disclosure on his official X handle.
He said the lifting of the ban is due to significant security improvements.
According to him, the decision comes after recognizing the state’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, lithium, and copper, which can greatly benefit the national economy.
He explained that the previous ban, intended to address security concerns linked to illegal mining and banditry, inadvertently allowed illegal miners to exploit the resources.
The Minister pointed out that with the lifting of the ban, he believes Zamfara’s mining sector can now contribute meaningfully to national revenue and enable better regulation of mining activities, combating illegal operations more effectively.
Alake noted that looking ahead to 2025, the ministry aims to introduce policies to revitalize the mining sector, consolidate reforms, and create a more favorable investment environment for sustainable growth.