The Federal Government has stepped up measures to tighten oversight of mining operations in Zamfara State, calling on miners to strictly follow safety rules governing the use of explosives amid growing worries about the spread of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the area.
During a stakeholders’ forum in Gusau, the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, through its Gusau Field Office and in partnership with the Zamfara State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), warned quarry operators, mineral processors, and gold traders against unsafe storage, handling, and transportation of explosive materials.
The Federal Mines Officer, Engr. Samuel Abunumah, cautioned that improper handling of explosives, especially components that could be used to fabricate IEDs constitutes a serious risk to public safety and the state’s security. He emphasized that strict compliance with regulations governing the storage, movement, and deployment of explosives in mining activities is mandatory.
Addressing increasing reports of IED circulation in the state, Abunumah revealed that the ministry is working closely with security agencies to trace the origin of the devices and ensure adherence to existing laws. He noted ongoing collaboration with the Explosive Ordinance Unit of the Nigerian Police, which is expected to clarify whether the explosives are linked to mining activities.
Also at the meeting, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Environment, Mining and Solid Minerals, Hon. Kasimu Sani Kaura, represented by the Director of Solid Minerals, Sanusi Maharazu Badarawa— voiced serious concern over alleged mishandling of explosives. He described the matter as a critical security issue demanding swift and coordinated government action to ensure tighter control and proper application of explosive materials within the mining sector.
In addition to safety issues, the Federal Mines Officer reminded stakeholders of their statutory financial responsibilities, urging miners and mineral dealers to promptly and accurately remit royalties as required under the official mining regulations.
The sensitization programme is part of broader efforts by federal and state authorities to reinforce regulation in the solid minerals sector, improve safety compliance, and ensure mining operations support economic development while safeguarding public security in Zamfara State.
