Kebbi State Government has announced a ban on all mining activities in the state.
Speaking to journalists in the state capital Birnin Kebbi on Friday, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Yakubu Tafida, said the government took the action because of insecurity.
Tafida said the need to protect mining workers, and host communities and put in measures for revenue generation was another reason why the decision was taken.
He said the state government was not unmindful of the fact that mining is under Exclusive Legislative List, but took action after a thorough assessment of the current security situation.
He explained that the state government believes that it is important to prioritize the protection and security of its citizens and also prevent mining fields from being converted to breeding criminals by unauthorized foreigners.
This is because it has happened in other neighbouring states which they want to avoid.
Speaking further the SSG said the government had decided to address the concerns through comprehensive evaluation and enforcement of strict regulations that will promote responsible mining, safeguard the environment, enhance revenue generation and above all, secure lives.
