The ban earlier placed on mining in Zanfara State by the federal government has finally been lifted after five years.
This information was disclosed by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, during a chat with journalists on Sunday.
He said miners were free to recommence mining exploration in the state after an improved security situation.
Recall that the federal government under the immediate past administration of Mr Muhammadu Buhari stopped mining operations in Zanfara State as a result of rising insecurity caused by terrorists, often described as bandits by the government.
The Minister, while speaking yesterday, said there have been “significant security improvements” in the state, which necessitated the new development.
He also said the federal government decided to lift the bank after “recognising the state’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, lithium, and copper, which could greatly benefit our national economy.”
According to him, the previous ban, intended to address security concerns linked to illegal mining and banditry, inadvertently allowed illegal miners to exploit the nation’s resources.
“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, combating illegal operations more effectively.
“Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to introduce policies to revitalize the mining sector, consolidate reforms, and create a more favourable investment environment for sustainable growth,” Mr Alake, a veteran journalist, stated.