Northern Elder Forum Criticizes FG Over Gold Refinery Location in Lagos

The Northern Elder Forum (NEF) has criticized the Federal Government for siting a gold refinery in Lagos instead of the North, accusing the decision of undermining the region's economic development and security. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development refuted claims of violating federal principles, stating the refinery is a private initiative by Kian Smith Trade & Co.

NEF argues the deliberate location perpetuates economic dispossessions in the North, likening it to a colonial economic structure. Prof.

Abubakar Jidder highlights the broader pattern of economic exclusion and injustice in the system.