By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, marked a significant milestone in the state’s mining sector by unveiling new mining equipment and announcing the acquisition of 15 mining licenses.
This development took place at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, signaling a new era for the state’s mining industry.
The Governor’s initiative aims to boost the state’s economy through strategic investments in the mining sector, harnessing its natural resources for economic benefit and also create new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards for the people of Kogi State.
He stated that unveiling the new mining equipment and securing 15 mining licenses marks a significant milestone for Kogi State, catapulting it into a league of states leveraging solid minerals development for economic growth.
The Governor emphasised that the licenses will enhance the state’s solid minerals development sector, enabling large-scale exploration and mining activities.
He stressed that Kogi state boasts an impressive array of mineral resources, including gold, lithium, limestone, coal, and many others. According to available data, the state is home to over 29 mineral resources found in commercial quantities across its 21 local government areas.
He disclosed that despite being richly endowed with these resources, Kogi state’s mineral wealth remains largely untapped, presenting a significant opportunity for economic growth and development adding that these resources could attract international investors, accelerate economic and social growth, and improve the standard of living for its residents.
“This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations. The 15 licenses secured will allow Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth,” the Governor stated.
Governor Ododo further emphasised Kogi state’s commitment to creating jobs and improving livelihoods through mining, highlighting that the new equipment will enable efficient resource extraction.
He expressed confidence that Kogi State is set to become a major player in Nigeria’s mining sector, leveraging its vast natural resources to drive economic growth and reduce dependence on federal allocations.
“We are ready to harness the full potential of our natural resources. Kogi will no longer wait for federal allocations but will take its future into its own hands through this mining initiative,” he added.
Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, highlighted the state’s vision for the mining sector, stating its potential as a key revenue generator.
He stressed the importance of robust policies, modern equipment, and strategic mining licenses to unlock the full potential of solid minerals development in Kogi State.
According to him, having the right equipment, laws, and policies in place is crucial for success in the mining industry, and the state is prepared to meet these requirements.
“Being a major player in the mining sector requires equipment, laws, and policies. We are prepared to meet these requirements,” he stated.
The Commissioner announced that Kogi state has secured 15 mining licenses through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited adding that the milestone will enable the state to commence solid mineral exploration immediately, marking a significant step towards harnessing its vast natural resources, including gold, lithium, limestone, and coal.
