Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, says the acquisition of 15 mining licenses and unveiling of new equipment will reposition the state as a key player in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
Governor Ododo stated this at the official unveiling of the mining equipment held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja on Friday, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah.
“This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations,” Ododo said. “The 15 licenses secured will allow Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth.”
He explained that Kogi is richly endowed with over 30 mineral resources, including gold, lithium, coal, and limestone, noting that these remain largely untapped.
“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,” the Governor added.
He noted that the new equipment would support efficient resource extraction and create jobs for Kogi residents.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, said: “Being a major player in the mining sector requires equipment, laws, and policies. We are prepared to meet these requirements.”
He confirmed that the licenses were secured through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited, paving the way for immediate exploration activities.
The initiative is part of the state’s drive to increase internally generated revenue and reduce overdependence on federal allocations.
