Nigerian State of Kogi Moves into Mining with New Equipment and Licences

The Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Ododo, has officially launched the state’s foray into large-scale mining, unveiling new equipment and announcing the acquisition of fifteen mining licences by the regional government.

Speaking at an event in the state capital, Lokoja, on Friday, Governor Ododo stated that this move marked the beginning of a “new phase” in Kogi State’s economic transformation, positioning it as a significant player in the development of solid minerals.

He assured that the fifteen newly secured mining licences would significantly boost the state’s solid minerals sector.

Governor Ododo highlighted that Kogi State is rich in various mineral deposits, including gold, lithium, limestone, and coal, among over 30 other commercially viable solid minerals that have largely remained untapped.

“This is a strategic move to harness our natural resources and reduce our reliance on federal allocations,” the Governor stated. “The 15 licences secured will allow Kogi to begin large-scale exploration and mining, ensuring sustainable economic growth.”

He emphasized the state’s commitment to creating employment opportunities and improving the livelihoods of its population through mining, noting that the newly unveiled equipment would facilitate the efficient extraction of these resources.

Governor Ododo affirmed Kogi State’s ambition to become a key player in Nigeria’s broader mining industry. He added that the state is determined to fully exploit its natural resources and “take its future into its own hands” through this mining initiative, aiming to boost internally generated revenue rather than primarily depending on federal funds.

The state’s Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, outlined the government’s vision for the mining sector as a crucial revenue generator. He stressed the necessity of robust policies, appropriate equipment, and the acquisition of mining licences to effectively tap into the potential of solid minerals development.

Engr. Gegu confirmed that the Kogi State government, through the Kogi State Solid Mineral Processing Company Limited, had already secured the 15 mining licences, a step that will enable the state to commence solid mineral exploration immediately.