The Northern States Governors’ Forum has called for a six-month suspension of mining exploration in Northern Nigeria to address the growing security crisis in the region.
The call was made during a joint meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council held in Kaduna on Monday.
According to a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the governors observed that illegal mining has become a major contributory factor to the security crises in Northern Nigeria.
The governors have therefore resolved to strongly recommend to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to suspend mining exploration for six months to allow for a proper audit.
All mining licenses will be subject to revalidation for six months in active consultation with the various state governors to arrest the menace of artisanal illegal mining.
The governors’ move is aimed at addressing the security challenges facing the region, including the recent killings and abductions of school children and other innocent citizens.
The Forum also reaffirmed its wholehearted support and commitment to the establishment of State Police, encouraging National and State Assembly Members in the region to expedite action for its actualisation.
The governors resolved to set up a regional Security Trust Fund, to be funded with a monthly contribution of N1 billion from each state and local government, to support security efforts in the region.
