By Ahmed Muhammed Danasabe Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially unveiled the state's new mining equipment, marking a significant milestone in the state's economic transformation. The unveiling ceremony, held at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, was accompanied by the announcement of the acquisition of 15 mining licenses by the Kogi State Government.
According to Governor Ododo, the unveiling of the equipment and acquisition of licenses will launch Kogi into the league of states taking advantage of solid minerals development. "This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations," he stated. The governor emphasized that the 15 licenses secured will enable Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Kogi State is blessed with vast mineral deposits, including gold, lithium, limestone, and coal, among over 30 other solid minerals in commercial quantities that remain largely untapped. The governor reaffirmed the state's commitment to creating job opportunities and improving the livelihoods of its people through mining. "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.
The Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, shared the state's vision for the mining sector, describing it as a key revenue-generating sector. "Being a major player in the mining sector requires equipment, laws, and policies. We are prepared to meet these requirements," he stated. The Commissioner confirmed that the Kogi State Government, through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited, had already secured 15 mining licenses, allowing the state to begin solid mineral exploration immediately.
With this development, Kogi State is poised to become a key player in Nigeria's mining industry, tapping into the full potential of its natural resources to boost internally generated revenue. The state's commitment to mining is expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of its people.
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Mining Industry