The Kogi State government in Nigeria has announced plans to ensure that local communities will be central to its burgeoning mining operations, promising significant economic transformation and infrastructure development.
Speaking in Abuja, the Special Adviser on Media to Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Ismaila Isah, stated that the recent acquisition of 15 mining licenses would be a catalyst for economic revitalisation across the state’s local communities.
Mr. Isah outlined the state government’s strategy to empower local populations in the solid minerals sector, which he said boasts over 32 commercially viable mineral deposits. He explained that a special purpose vehicle, the Solid Minerals Development Company, has been established to attract both foreign and local investment into the mining sector.
“Our approach is to make these mining activities community-owned,” Mr. Isah said. “We are encouraging communities to float cooperatives that will allow them become critical stakeholders in the mining sector. Aside the usual corporate social responsibility efforts that companies present to our people, we want communities to have a say in the running of mining activities in their lands.”
He also emphasised the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, announcing plans to train 25,000 young people to take leading roles in the state’s mineral exploration initiatives.
Mr. Isah confirmed that Governor Ododo is currently in China, engaging with the international community to attract investment opportunities in Kogi State. Discussions are also focused on technology transfer and manpower exchanges to enhance skills in key sectors including mining, agriculture, healthcare, education, power, and transportation.
The governor’s spokesman assured that Kogi State is open to genuine investors who align with its development agenda, highlighting the state’s vast fertile lands and mineral resources, as well as its readily available skilled workforce.
Turning to the agricultural sector, Mr. Isah said the state government is adopting a “bottom-top approach” focused on farmers and farming communities. Plans include the mechanisation of agricultural production, with a significant expansion of the “one farmer, one hectare” policy and the acquisition of more modern farming equipment. Securing farmers and farmlands is also a priority.
Mr. Isah projected rapid economic transformation within the next year, with Governor Ododo prioritising impactful initiatives. These include building a robust social register to support vulnerable groups and expanding the health insurance scheme to cover more citizens. The agriculture transformation agenda is also set to be significantly scaled up.
He concluded by assuring that all stakeholders in Kogi State would be included in the development efforts of Governor Ododo’s administration, regardless of political affiliation.
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