The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has commended the federal government for lifting the five-year ban on mining activities in North West Zamfara State.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Josiah Afolabi, the group described it as a good move that will boost the economic diversification agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration.
The statement read: “This decisive action, as announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake marks a significant milestone in harnessing the economic potential of Nigeria’s vast mineral resources.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the ban was originally imposed in 2019 to address escalating insecurity fueled by illegal mining operations, but it later became a double-edged sword.
“While it curbed some immediate threats, it inadvertently created opportunities for unregulated exploitation, environmental degradation, and loss of national revenue.
“We at TSF applaud the administration’s strategic approach in restoring security to Zamfara, which has now paved the way for regulated and lawful mining operations.
“This is coming at a time when the Tinubu administration’s commitment to addressing security challenges through intelligence-driven and coordinated military operations have yielded commendable results.
“The neutralization of notorious bandit commanders, including the once-dreaded Halilu Sububu, underscores the success of these efforts. Such advancements, in our view, demonstrate the administration’s resolve to ensure the safety of lives and properties while promoting economic growth.
“Zamfara’s abundant mineral deposits, including gold, lithium, and copper, present a golden opportunity to significantly boost Nigeria’s revenue. So, the resumption of mining activities is expected to create jobs, stimulate infrastructure development, and attract foreign investments.
“These developments align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to drive inclusive economic development across the nation.”
The group, however, urged the authorities to take steps to ensure that local communities benefit from mining operations in the domain.
“With the benefit of hindsight, we are emphasizing the importance of robust regulations and oversight to ensure that the exploitation of these resources does not compromise environmental sustainability or social equity.
“We urge the relevant authorities to ensure that mining operations prioritize the welfare of local communities as well as their active participation to enable them to benefit from the sector’s growth.
“We also acknowledge the clarification provided by Dr Alake regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, which focuses on training and capacity-building for Nigeria’s mining professionals.
“As Nigeria’s mining sector begins to reclaim its role as a key contributor to national prosperity, we call on all stakeholders to uphold best practices and work collectively toward sustainable development. Together, we can ensure that this new chapter in Zamfara’s mining history translates into tangible benefits for the Nigerian people,” it added.
TSF also urged all stakeholders to continue their collaboration with the government to combat misinformation and support the sector’s reforms.
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