The Kebbi State Government has declared a prohibition on all mining operations within the state.
In a statement to reporters in the state capital, Birnin Kebbi, on Friday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Yakubu Tafida, explained that the government’s decision stemmed from security concerns.
Tafida emphasized that safeguarding the well-being of mining workers and local communities, along with implementing revenue-generating strategies, were additional factors that contributed to this resolution.
He acknowledged that mining falls under the Exclusive Legislative List, but clarified that the decision was made following a thorough assessment of the present security situation.
Tafida elucidated that the state government places a high priority on protecting its citizens and preventing mining areas from being transformed into havens for unlawful activities by unauthorized foreign individuals, a situation that has occurred in neighboring states, which they aim to avoid.
Expanding on this, the SSG mentioned that the government intends to address these concerns by conducting a comprehensive evaluation and enforcing stringent regulations that promote responsible mining, safeguard the environment, boost revenue generation, and, most importantly, ensure the safety and security of its residents.
