The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to illegal miners operating in Zamfara State, mandating their immediate evacuation from all mining sites. This directive underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the current suspension on all mining activities within the state until a comprehensive set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) is finalized and released. The development of these SOPs is intended to provide a robust framework for the eventual resumption of mining exploration in Zamfara, ensuring responsible and regulated operations. The impetus for this renewed emphasis on compliance stems from recent reports of a devastating lead poisoning incident in Bugundu Local Government Area, a tragic event highlighting the dangers of unregulated mining practices.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, expressed profound concern over the lead poisoning outbreak, emphasizing that the existing six-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara should have precluded such an occurrence. The incident, he argued, points to a critical failure of oversight on the part of traditional and local institutions, who bear the responsibility of enforcing government directives within their jurisdictions. Their apparent acquiescence to illegal mining operations, despite the explicit ban, represents a grave dereliction of duty and a contributing factor to the unfolding health crisis. Dr. Alake stressed the paramount importance of adherence to established laws and regulations, particularly by those entrusted with authority and funded by public resources. Their failure to enforce the mining ban has created a climate of lawlessness with dire consequences, as evidenced by the lead poisoning tragedy.
In response to the crisis, Dr. Alake outlined a multi-pronged approach to mitigate the situation and prevent future occurrences. This includes deploying teams of experts and ministry officials to conduct a thorough assessment and recommend specific interventions. These recommendations will inform the development of comprehensive strategies aimed at safeguarding communities from similar calamities in the future. The Minister commended the Zamfara State government for its swift deployment of emergency services to the affected area and emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between state authorities and ministry officials. This collaborative effort, he asserted, is crucial for effectively eradicating illegal mining activities and protecting vulnerable populations from the reckless pursuit of profit by unscrupulous individuals.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is currently finalizing the comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will govern the resumption of mining activities in Zamfara State. These SOPs are designed to address a range of critical issues, including the status of existing mining license holders, the processing of new applications, ensuring compliance with community development agreements, and implementing robust beneficiation and remediation efforts. This comprehensive approach aims to overhaul the mining sector in Zamfara, promoting responsible practices and prioritizing the well-being of local communities. The SOPs represent a significant step towards establishing a sustainable and regulated mining industry in the state.
Furthermore, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to combat illegal mining and other illicit activities within the sector. The recent approval for the deployment of satellite technology for nationwide mining monitoring is a crucial development in this regard. This technology will provide real-time surveillance capabilities, enabling authorities to detect and respond to illegal mining operations with greater efficiency and effectiveness. This advanced monitoring system will play a pivotal role in enforcing regulations, protecting the environment, and ensuring the responsible development of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The context for these developments is the government’s lifting of a five-year ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State in December 2024. This ban was originally imposed due to the pervasive insecurity caused by banditry and rampant illegal mining operations. The decision to lift the ban was predicated on significant improvements in the security situation within the state. Following this decision, a dedicated committee was established to develop the specific standard operating procedures for mining operations in Zamfara, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities present in the region. The current emphasis on enforcing the temporary suspension of mining activities pending the finalization and implementation of these SOPs demonstrates the government’s commitment to a cautious and regulated approach to the resumption of mining in Zamfara, prioritizing safety, environmental protection, and the well-being of local communities.
