The Kebbi State Government has announced a ban on all mining activities in the state. The announcement was made on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Yakubu Tafida, at a press conference in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.

Tafida said the ban was necessary to ensure the safety of workers and people in mining communities, as well as to prevent mining fields from being converted to breeding grounds for criminals.

He said the state government was aware that mining is on the Exclusive Legislative List, but decided to take the action after a thorough assessment of the current security situation.

“This has happened in other neighbouring states for which we want to avert,” Tafida said.

However, the state government has said that it is committed to developing the mining sector in a sustainable and responsible manner. It has also said that it will provide support to affected miners and communities during the transition period.

Tafida also stated that government had decided to address the concerns through comprehensive evaluation and enforcement of strict regulations that seek to promote responsible mining, safeguard the environment, enhance revenue generation and above all, secure lives