FG Lifts Mining Ban in Zamfara After Five-Year Suspension

The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, five years after imposing the restriction due to security concerns.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, announced the decision in a statement on Sunday, citing significant improvements in the state’s security situation.

“The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state,” the statement read.

Alake highlighted Zamfara’s vast potential, noting its wealth of gold, lithium, and copper reserves.

He added that the previous ban, while intended to address insecurity, inadvertently allowed illegal miners to exploit the state’s resources, costing the nation revenue.

“The existential threat to lives and property that led to the 2019 ban has abated,” Alake said.

“Coordinated security operations have neutralized key bandit commanders, including the recent capture of Halilu Sububu, significantly reducing insecurity in the state.”

He emphasized that lifting the ban would allow for better regulation of mining activities, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure the country benefits from Zamfara’s rich mineral resources.

Alake also expressed optimism that renewed mining activities would boost the state’s economy and contribute significantly to national revenue.