Federal Government Rejects Mining Suspension Amid Northern Governors' Security Concerns
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly rejected calls from northern governors and traditional leaders for a six-month suspension of mining activities across Northern Nigeria. This decision comes in response to escalating bandit attacks and security challenges in the region, with the Federal Government emphasizing the severe economic repercussions of such a blanket ban.
Economic Implications Outweigh Security Concerns
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, articulated the government's position, warning that a total shutdown of mining operations would have grave economic consequences for both the North and the nation at large. Alake explained that the Federal Government had carefully weighed the legitimate security concerns against the economic realities of ongoing mining and mineral processing activities across the region.
The minister's Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, confirmed this stance in Abuja on Monday, February 9, 2026. Alake stated, "The position of the Federal Government remains that there can't be a blanket suspension of mining activities across the North because it will have far more adverse economic implications for the region and the nation."
Strategic Industrial Facilities at Risk
Alake highlighted several critical industrial facilities that rely directly on mining operations in Northern Nigeria, which would be severely affected by a comprehensive ban. These include:
- Lithium plants operational in Nasarawa and the outskirts of Abuja
- An iron processing plant located in Kaduna
- Numerous other mining activities across the region
- The cement factory in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, which depends on limestone mining
The minister emphasized that these operations contribute significantly to both regional and national economic stability, making a blanket suspension economically untenable.
Northern Governors Reconsider Their Position
Following extensive engagements with the Federal Government, northern governors have reportedly begun to reconsider their earlier advice regarding a total mining ban. Alake noted, "So, based on these facts, I believe the northern governors have reconsidered their advisory on a blanket ban based on our engagement with them."
This development suggests that while security concerns remain paramount, there is growing recognition of the need to balance security measures with economic sustainability.
Broader Context of Mining Regulation
The Tinubu administration has been actively working to regulate the mining sector more effectively. The government recently issued deadlines to mining and quarrying companies licensed by the Nigerian Mining Cadastral Office, requiring them to conclude Community Development Agreements with host communities by December 31, 2025.
Minister Alake has also communicated directly with community leaders and traditional rulers in mining communities, emphasizing the importance of responsible mining practices and community engagement.
The debate over mining activities occurs against the backdrop of Nigeria's complex economic landscape, where mining represents both opportunity and challenge. The country's lithium mining operations, sometimes described as an "Eldorado," have sparked both optimism and concern, highlighting the tension between economic development and security considerations.
