Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled newly acquired mining equipment and announced the acquisition of fifteen mining licenses by the state government, marking a significant step toward economic diversification and solid minerals development.
The announcement was made during the official unveiling ceremony held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja on Friday. Governor Ododo described the event as the beginning of a new era for Kogi State, officially positioning it among Nigerian states strategically leveraging their solid mineral resources for development.
“This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations,” the Governor stated. “The 15 licenses secured will allow Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth.”
Governor Ododo emphasized that Kogi is endowed with over 30 solid minerals in commercial quantities—including gold, lithium, limestone, and coal—which remain largely untapped. He noted that the new mining initiative will facilitate resource extraction, create jobs, and enhance the state’s internally generated revenue.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic transformation, he said: “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.”
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, highlighted the state’s vision to become a major player in Nigeria’s mining industry. He stated that the government, through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited, has already secured the 15 licenses needed to commence solid mineral exploration.
“Being a major player in the mining sector requires equipment, laws, and policies. We are prepared to meet these requirements,” he affirmed, adding that the sector is poised to become a key revenue-generating pillar for the state.
This landmark initiative underscores Governor Ododo’s broader agenda to drive economic sustainability and industrial development through the responsible exploitation of Kogi’s vast natural endowments.
Ismaila Isah
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor
