FG, Zamfara to collaborate on mining development

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), on Friday, restated its commitment to work closely with the Zamfara State Government to leverage the state’s mineral resources for economic development.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, disclosed this in Abuja, while receiving Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal in his office.

Alake, in a statement by its Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, stressed the importance of the state to Nigeria’s mining sector, highlighting the need to eliminate impediments stifling mining development in the state.

Alake said: “Zamfara is one of Nigeria’s most resource-rich states, particularly in solid minerals. It is essential for all levels of government to collaborate in responsibly exploiting these resources and ensuring that the revenue benefits both Zamfara citizens and Nigerians as a whole.”

Governor Lawal noted that his visit aimed to enhance cooperation between the federal and state governments in addressing challenges in the mining sector.

Gov. Lawal said: “We discussed security concerns and strategies to better utilise our mineral resources for the benefit of both Zamfara and the nation. We need to explore the necessary infrastructure to attract investors to solid minerals.”

It will be recalled that recent federal efforts to improve the mining environment in Zamfara include the elimination of several banditry leaders and ongoing security operations designed to create a safer investment climate.