The Nigerian federal government has established guidelines for gold mining in Zamfara to promote transparency and regulate regional operations. According to Dele Alake, the minister of solid minerals development, Nigeria is also benefiting from the surge in global gold prices, which currently exceed $3,000 per ounce.
Speaking at a press briefing, Alake outlined efforts to combat illegal mining and ensure security in the sector. He noted that following the government’s decision to lift a five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara in December 2024, a committee was set up to create a standard operating procedure for mining in the state.
Alake explained that the committee, comprising multiple agencies and departments, developed a framework to regulate mining operations. “We lifted the ban on exploration in Zamfara late last year. Subsequently, I set up a committee to establish a standard operating procedure tailored to Zamfara’s unique circumstances,” he said. “We now have a comprehensive guideline, serving as a code for anyone seeking to operate in the state.”
The minister also disclosed that he had engaged in discussions with Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to seek their cooperation in ensuring smooth operations for licensed miners. “Everyone will be involved in guaranteeing that legitimate operators in Zamfara can work without hindrance,” he said, adding that banditry and other illegal activities would not be allowed to disrupt lawful mining operations.
Furthermore, Alake stated that mining marshals would oversee the movement of solid minerals within Zamfara and beyond. Only agents registered with the mines inspectorate department would be permitted to transport minerals from mining sites to designated centres. The marshals would also conduct road checkpoints to verify documentation and prevent mineral smuggling.
He warned that violators found transporting minerals illegally would face strict penalties, including the confiscation of their cargo and prosecution under the Mining Act.
According to the minister, mining marshals deployed to Zamfara will collaborate with security agencies to enforce these regulations. He also confirmed that exploration licences would soon be issued to qualified applicants, paving the way for a more structured and legally compliant mining sector in the state.
