Table of Contents
- Announcement of Mining Suspension
- Security Concerns and Governor's Statement
- Northern Governors Forum Involvement
- Funding for Regional Security
- Economic Development Initiatives
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has declared a comprehensive suspension of mining activities throughout the state as part of renewed efforts to address insecurity associated with banditry and kidnapping.
Governor Sule revealed this decision during a briefing with members of the State Executive Council at the Government House in Lafia, emphasizing that illegal mining sites have become sanctuaries for criminal organizations.
He stated that this action is in line with the resolutions of the Northern Governors Forum, which recently convened in Kaduna and recommended a six-month moratorium on mining across the northern region due to rising security concerns.
The governor noted that although mining has significantly contributed to the state's internally generated revenue, the current security situation necessitates immediate intervention.
“We are halting all licenses. If the President approves, a thorough verification will follow to distinguish legitimate miners from the numerous illegal operators,” he remarked.
“In areas where mining activities occur, bandits and kidnappers also find refuge.”
Sule, who also serves as the chair of the North Central Governors Forum, disclosed that all 19 northern governors have agreed to contribute N19 billion monthly to a regional security fund for one year. These funds will be utilized to acquire advanced security equipment and recruit thousands of trained youths to bolster ongoing security operations, including support for local vigilantes and hunters.
Additionally, each northern state will contribute N100 million this month to establish the Northern Governors Secretariat in Kaduna.
The governor also praised security agencies and community leaders for their contributions to ongoing operations, mentioning that a coordinated security sweep is scheduled to take place in the Nasarawa Local Government Area to tackle recent increases in kidnappings.
Regarding economic development, Governor Sule announced that the state’s locally produced rice brand, NASACCO, developed in collaboration with Silvex International, will be officially launched on December 17, 2025.
The product will be marketed under the name NASACCO Gold at a 10% discount compared to current market prices for a 50kg bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has mining been suspended in Nasarawa State?
Mining activities have been suspended to combat insecurity related to banditry and kidnapping, as illegal mining sites have become safe havens for criminals.
What actions are being taken to improve security in the northern region?
All 19 northern governors have agreed to contribute N19 billion monthly to a regional security fund to procure advanced security equipment and recruit trained youth to support security operations.
When will the NASACCO rice brand be launched?
The NASACCO rice brand is set to be officially launched on December 17, 2025.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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