Gold miners in Zamfara State are increasingly exposed to security threats as armed groups attempt to impose levies on mining operations and seize control of mineral-rich areas, putting local livelihoods and economic activities at risk.
The development was highlighted in a report titled Nigeria Security and Political Economy, covering October 2–8, 2026. The report, prepared by SBM Intelligence, was shared with The PUNCH on Monday and examines security incidents across Nigeria, alongside their political and economic consequences.
Zamfara is situated within one of West Africa’s major gold-bearing belts, where artisanal mining has been practised for decades. However, a significant portion of the gold trade takes place through informal channels, restricting government revenue and preventing mining communities from fully benefiting from the region’s mineral wealth.
