Northern Governors Seek Six-Month Ban on Mining

The Northern Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council have called for a six-month suspension of all mining activities in the region, saying illegal mining is a major driver of the worsening insecurity across several Nigerian states.

The leaders also agreed to establish a regional security trust fund to tackle the escalating security challenges.

Under the plan, each state and its local governments will contribute ₦1 billion monthly, deducted at source under an agreed framework.

In a communiqué issued after their joint meeting in Kaduna on Monday, December 1, the governors said the trust fund would provide stable financing for joint security operations, intelligence-led interventions, and coordinated responses across the North.

They noted that illegal mining has become a significant contributor to insecurity and resolved to recommend that the President instruct the Minister of Solid Minerals to suspend mining activities for six months.

This pause would allow for a proper audit and the revalidation of all mining licences in consultation with state governors, aimed at curbing artisanal and illegal mining.

To strengthen regional security efforts, the Forum endorsed the creation of the regional Security Trust Fund, financed by monthly contributions of ₦1 billion from each state and its local government areas, deducted directly at source.

The leaders extended condolences to communities in Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano affected by recent attacks and abductions, and to victims of Boko Haram assaults in Borno and Yobe.

They praised the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, for its swift response to the abductions and its handling of wider security issues.

They also commended the sacrifices of security personnel confronting various insurgencies nationwide.

The Forum reaffirmed its support for all measures the President undertakes to pursue insurgents in their hideouts and to restore peace across the region.