- The Kebbi State Government has banned all mining activities to prioritize the safety of mining workers and host communities
- The ban aims to prevent mining areas from becoming breeding grounds for criminals by unauthorized foreigners and protect lives
The Kebbi State Government announced a ban on all mining activities in the state on Friday.
Yakubu Tafida, Secretary to the State Government, told journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, on Friday that the government took action due to insecurity and the need to protect mining workers and host communities and put in measures for revenue generation.
He described it as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of mining workers and residents.
He stated that the state government was aware that mining is on the Exclusive Legislative List but took action after thoroughly assessing the current security situation.
According to the SSG, the state government believes it is critical to prioritize citizen protection and security while preventing mining fields from being used to breed criminals by unauthorized foreigners.
“This has happened in other neighbouring states, and we want to avoid it,” he said.
He stated that the government had decided to address the concerns by conducting a thorough evaluation and enforcing strict regulations designed to promote responsible mining, protect the environment, increase revenue generation, and, most importantly, protect lives.