Jubilation as Tinubu orders lifting of mining ban in Zamfara

The federal government, under President Bola Tinubu, has lifted the mining ban in Zamfara State, citing improved security in the region.

The announcement, made on Sunday by Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, marks the end of a restriction imposed in 2019 during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The ban was initially enacted to curb illegal mining and its links to banditry and insurgency. However, Alake noted that the prohibition inadvertently allowed illegal miners to exploit Zamfara’s resources unchecked.

“After over five years of restrictions, I am pleased to announce the lifting of the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State, thanks to significant security improvements,” the minister stated.

He highlighted the state’s rich deposits of gold, lithium, and copper, emphasizing their potential to significantly boost Nigeria’s economy. Alake also pledged to introduce reforms that would create a more favorable environment for mining investments, combat illegal operations, and ensure proper regulation of the sector.

“With the lifting of the ban, I believe Zamfara’s mining sector can now contribute meaningfully to national revenue and enable better regulation of mining activities,” he added.