Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially unveiled the state’s new mining equipment, signaling Kogi’s entry into the league of states leveraging solid minerals development.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, the Governor stated that the acquisition of these mining licenses, coupled with the new equipment, marks the beginning of a new phase in the state’s economic transformation.
He noted that Kogi State is blessed with vast mineral deposits, including gold, lithium, limestone, coal among over 30 other solid minerals in commercial quantities which remain largely untapped.
“This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations and licenses secured will allow Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth,” .
He further emphasized that the state is committed to creating job opportunities and improving the livelihoods of its people through mining, noting that the equipment will facilitate the efficient extraction of resources.
In his remarks, 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 ministry.
He underscored the need for effective policies, proper equipment, and the appropriate mining licenses to unlock the sector’s full potential, pointing out that the company is well equipped to meet these critical requirements and position itself as a leading force in the mining industry.
The Commissioner confirmed that the Kogi State government, through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited had already secured 15 mining licenses noted that it’s a step that will allow the state to begin solid mineral exploration immediately.
