In a significant move to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on federal allocations, the Federal Government has awarded the Kogi State Government 15 mining licenses aimed at tapping into the state’s abundant solid mineral resources.
Governor Usman Ododo announced this development in Lokoja, the state capital, during the International Conference, Exhibition, and 25th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Material Engineering (NI3ME), a branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). The governor was represented by his deputy, Joel Oyinbo, who emphasized that this strategic initiative is designed to stimulate economic growth and foster rapid development within the state.
The licenses encompass a range of valuable and largely untapped resources, including limestone, coal, tin, iron ore, and bauxite. With these licenses, Kogi State is poised to establish a robust foundation for sustainable mining operations that will create jobs, generate revenue, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the region.
“Under my leadership, the executive arm of the Kogi State Government is collaborating with the State Assembly to enact legislation aimed at prohibiting illegal mining, enhancing artisanal and small-scale mining, addressing environmental degradation, and ensuring sustainable mining practices throughout the state,” stated Governor Ododo. “This initiative also includes a targeted program to train and engage 25,000 youths in the mineral and mining sector.”
In his address, the National Chairman of NI3ME, Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, lamented the nation’s overreliance on oil, which has overshadowed other economic potentials. He called for an urgent shift in focus.
“By developing the metals and solid minerals sectors, we can enhance employment opportunities, improve living standards, and create pathways for growth in other critical industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism,” he asserted. “This conference aims to outline a sustainable strategy for achieving these vital
