Residents in Zamfara State are calling on the Federal Government to take decisive action against illegal mining activities, which they say are causing grave harm to their communities. The unregulated operations have been linked to insecurity, child labour, environmental degradation, and the denial of education to young people.
Many locals also point to the tragic 2010 lead poisoning incident—which claimed the lives of over 500 children—as a direct consequence of illegal mining. Despite a federal ban on mining in the state, residents allege that enforcement has been weak, allowing both foreigners and Nigerians to continue operations unchecked.
NigerianMining learnt the ban exists only on paper. Several residents accuse the authorities of turning a blind eye while foreign nationals and artisanal miners exploit gold-rich areas, often triggering local conflict and displacement in the process.
One resident noted, “The mining law we’re using was passed in 2007—almost two decades ago. Even where regulation exists, there’s no enforcement. In Zamfara, we have a field office for mining, but how many officers are really deployed? Meanwhile, across nearly all local governments in Zamfara, gold is being mined illegally.”
He added that both legal and illegal miners, including foreign nationals from China and neighbouring African countries, are active in the region. “Some of them operate without permits, without agreements with either the state or federal governments,” he said.
Residents also warned that the unchecked activity has fuelled banditry, as idle youth are lured into mining and criminal ventures due to the lack of oversight. “Illegal mining is directly linked to growing insecurity. Some of those who arrive with mining equipment later engage in armed activities,” one speaker observed.
The communities are now urging both federal and state authorities to urgently regulate mining operations, enforce licensing, and ensure that host communities benefit from royalties and corporate social responsibility.
“People have stopped asking for compensation. They no longer demand social responsibility commitments. All they want is survival. But what they are left with is insecurity, environmental harm, and displacement,” said a resident.
Highlighting the way forward, they advised the government to impose sanctions on illegal miners while ensuring that legitimate operators are fully documented. This includes proper licensing, clear identification of operators, and full transparency around community engagement.
Speaking on behalf of the Zamfara State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Permanent Secretary Ruwan Musa stated that while the state itself is not engaged in mining activities, it has taken steps to formalise artisanal miners and prepare them for when the federal government releases standard operating procedures.
