Nigeria Resumes Mining Operations in Zamfara State Following…

Nigeria has lifted a five-year mining ban in Zamfara State, citing improved security as a key factor. The government aims to enhance the mining sector’s contribution to the economy, which has heavily relied on oil. Minister Dele Alake emphasized the need for reforms and international partnerships to support the mining industry’s growth, as illegal mining activity had surged during the suspension.

Nigeria has officially resumed mining operations in Zamfara State, ending a five-year ban that was instituted due to escalating violence from banditry. The decision was announced by the Mining Minister, Dele Alake, who attributed the lifting of the ban to substantial improvements in security conditions. Zamfara is known for its rich deposits of gold, lithium, and copper, and this resumption is expected to allow the mining sector to contribute more significantly to national revenue.

The mining sector in Nigeria has faced considerable challenges, particularly during the five-year hiatus, when illegal mining activities flourished unchecked. Minister Alake highlighted that the return to formal mining operations would enable the government to regulate the industry and curb illicit activities that have undermined the state’s resources. Revitalizing this sector is vital for Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy, which has heavily relied on oil, contributing less than 1% of the GDP from mining.

To support this transition, the Nigerian government has implemented various reforms aimed at attracting investors. These reforms include rescinding unused mining licenses, offering significant stake options in a new national mining entity, limiting exports of unprocessed minerals, and enforcing regulations against illegal mining practices. In addition, Nigeria has sought international partnerships to enhance its mining capabilities, benefiting from training agreements with countries such as France, Germany, and Australia.

For several years, Nigeria’s mining industry has been severely hampered by security issues, particularly in Zamfara State, which is rich in mineral deposits. The ban on mining was a response to the rampant violence perpetrated by armed bandits, which prompted the government to take action to protect both the citizens and the economy. The resumption of mining operations is part of a larger strategy to revitalize this sector and reduce the country’s dependence on oil by expanding the contributions of mining to the economy.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara represents a significant development for Nigeria’s economy and reflects ongoing efforts to improve security in the region. As the government introduces reforms and seeks international partnerships, there is a hopeful outlook for the mining sector to expand its contribution to national revenue. The initiative also aims to promote responsible mining practices while curtailing illegal activities that have undermined the sector’s growth.

Original Source: www.mining.com