Alake: FG will collaborate with Zamfara on mining development

Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, says the federal government will collaborate with the government of Zamfara to utilise the state’s mineral resources for economic development.

Alake spoke in Abuja on Friday when he received Dauda Lawal, the governor of Zamfara, in his office.

Alake said Zamfara is among Nigeria’s most resource-rich states, particularly in solid minerals, noting that there is a need to remove obstacles hindering mining development in the state.

“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,” he said.

While speaking, the Zamfara governor said the motive behind the visit was to enhance cooperation between his state and the federal government in addressing challenges in the mining sector.

“We discussed security concerns and strategies to better utilise our mineral resources for the benefit of both Zamfara and the nation,” he said.

“We need to explore the necessary infrastructure to attract investors to solid minerals.”

In January, Lawal banned traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining activities across the state.

The governor said the unregulated manner in which the traditional rulers approve consent letters for mining activities has exposed the state to grave danger.