The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to introduce a Standard Operating Code (SOC) to regulate gold exploration in Zamfara State, aiming to create a more structured, transparent, and secure mining environment.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, during a recent press briefing commemorating the first anniversary of the Mining Marshals, a special body established to combat illegal mining activities in the country.
The move comes after the government lifted a five-year ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State in December 2024. The ban was initially imposed due to widespread banditry and illegal mining operations that severely disrupted the region’s mining sector.
However, following significant improvements in the state’s security situation, the Federal Government has deemed it appropriate to resume mining activities while ensuring proper regulation.
Minister Alake revealed that a special committee had been formed to draft the Standard Operating Code specifically for gold extraction in Zamfara.
The committee is made up of representatives from multiple government agencies and departments, and it will work to create a comprehensive set of guidelines for those wishing to engage in mining operations in the state.
The goal of the committee is to ensure that gold mining in Zamfara is done in a responsible and legally compliant manner, with a focus on increasing transparency and preventing illegal mining activities. “The Standard Operating Code will provide a clear code of conduct for anyone looking to operate in the gold sector of Zamfara, ensuring that operations are conducted within legal and ethical parameters,” said Alake.
Improving Transparency and Security in the SectorThe introduction of the SOC aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to formalize and regulate the mining sector in Nigeria.
With an eye on attracting legitimate investors and boosting the economy, the government seeks to prevent exploitation by illegal miners, many of whom have contributed to the insecurity in the region.
The standard operating code will also focus on enhancing environmental sustainability and worker safety, ensuring that mining activities are carried out with minimal harm to the environment and local communities.
Alake emphasized that the implementation of the new code will be strictly monitored by the Mining Marshals, who have been working to safeguard the sector against illegal mining activities.
This measure is expected to bring order to a previously chaotic and often unsafe mining industry, while also contributing to Nigeria’s broader efforts to improve the transparency of its natural resource management.
The new regulatory framework is poised to play a crucial role in restoring stability to Zamfara’s mining sector.
As the state holds significant gold reserves, the government’s push for a more organized and regulated mining industry is expected to unlock potential economic growth while promoting security and local development.
The Federal Government has made it clear that anyone wishing to mine in Zamfara must comply with the new standards, ensuring that only those who meet the necessary legal and ethical requirements will be allowed to operate.
This move is expected to not only create a safer environment but also attract responsible investments that could transform the gold mining industry in Nigeria.
