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The Federal Authorities has lifted the ban on mining exploration actions in Zamfara State, ending over 5 years of restrictions imposed attributable to safety issues.
This resolution follows important enhancements within the state’s safety panorama.
Asserting the event at a weekend press briefing, the Minister of Strong Minerals Improvement, Dr Dele Alake, highlighted the financial potential of Zamfara, identified for its plentiful reserves of gold, lithium, and copper.
He famous that whereas the 2019 ban was supposed to deal with safety points, it inadvertently created alternatives for unlawful miners to use the nation’s sources.
“The existential threats that necessitated the ban have been largely mitigated, due to intelligence-driven safety operations which have neutralised key bandit commanders,” Alake stated.
He added that Zamfara’s mineral wealth has the potential to considerably increase nationwide income.
The minister pointed to a current breakthrough in safety operations, together with the seize of infamous bandit commander Halilu Sububu, as proof of the state’s improved security.
With the ban lifted, the federal government goals to higher regulate mining actions, curb unlawful operations, and maximise the financial advantages of Zamfara’s mineral deposits.
Dr Alake additionally addressed current controversy over the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, clarifying that the settlement focuses solely on coaching and capacity-building for Nigeria’s mining professionals.
“This doesn’t suggest relinquishing management over our mineral sources or coming into right into a navy pact,” he assured, including that related agreements have been signed with Germany and Australia.
The minister counseled the media for supporting reforms within the mining sector, urging continued collaboration to counter misinformation.
Wanting forward, he revealed plans for additional reforms in 2025 to draw investments and guarantee sustainable progress within the sector.
With the ban lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector is poised to reclaim its function as a big contributor to Nigeria’s financial system.
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