Matawalle welcomes FG’s decision to lift mining ban in Zamfara, eyes economic growth
Mining
Abdullateef Fowewe
The former governor of Zamfara, currently the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to lift the ban on mining exploration in Zamfara State, stating that it will attract investors and significantly enhance the state’s socio-economic growth.
Matawalle while speaking with journalists highlighted the challenges the state has faced since the ban was imposed under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, citing the detrimental impact on the state’s solid minerals sector due to insecurity.
He thereby expressed optimism that the lifting of the ban will open up new opportunities and accelerate development in the region.
Matawalle said, “The then President (Buhari) placed a ban on mining and a no-fly zone. However, if you look at what we are losing in the state, it is substantial because Zamfara is a hub that has significant potential in mineral resources.
“Mr President has approved the lifting of the ban on mining; our people will benefit from it, and it will bring more investors to come and invest in the state because Zamfara is a hub of mineral resources. Many foreign nationals are showing interest, particularly in the issue of lithium. It is now lucrative. People are now going into the business of lithium, and some developing countries are now using it to manufacture electric cars.”
