The Federal Government has unveiled plans to regulate gold exploration in Zamfara State by introducing a standard operating code aimed at ensuring a more structured and transparent mining process.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, disclosed this in response to questions asked by our correspondent at a recent press briefing to mark the first anniversary of the establishment of the Mining Marshals, a special body set up to safeguard the sector against illegal mining activities.
In December 2024, the government lifted a five-year ban on mining exploration, infected by banditry and illegal mining operations in Zamfara State.
The move was made following significant improvement in the security situation in the state. Sequel to this, Alake explained that a committee was formed to draft a standard operating procedure specifically for mining operations in the state.
The committee, which is inter-agency and inter-departmental, aims to provide a code of conduct for anyone wishing to operate within the state’s mining sector, particularly with regard to gold extraction.
