The Kogi State Government has secured 15 mining licences covering strategic solid minerals, as part of its broader plan to transform the state’s mining sector and attract private investment.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo made this known at the 2025 International Conference of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers held in Lokoja. Represented by his deputy, Joel Oyibo, the governor said the move signals the state’s commitment to harnessing its vast mineral wealth for economic diversification and industrial growth.
“Our government has acquired fifteen mining licences covering deposits such as limestone, coal, tin, iron ore, and bauxite. These licences are foundational to building a sustainable, job-creating mining industry,” he said.
According to a statement issued Friday by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, Governor Ododo stated that the government is also investing in mining infrastructure. He revealed that the state-owned Kogi State Mineral Processing Company has received new equipment to improve efficiency and add value to extracted minerals.
Ododo said Kogi is home to more than 30 mineral resources and several major industrial facilities including the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, Itakpe Iron Ore Mines, and major cement plants. He described the state as “strategically placed on Nigeria’s mineral map.”
To consolidate these efforts, the government is working with the State Assembly to enact laws curbing illegal mining and promoting sustainable practices. The reforms will also support artisanal and small-scale miners.
Ododo noted that the state has set a target of training and engaging 25,000 young people in the mining value chain. He added that human capital development is a central focus of his administration, citing investments in education, vocational training, and science and technology.
“At Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), we have introduced 11 engineering programmes, including mining, materials, and metallurgical engineering. These are directly aligned with our ambitions in the solid minerals sector,” he said.
He further disclosed plans to enhance collaboration between universities and the mining industry to ensure that graduates are industry-ready.
The governor urged both local and international investors to take advantage of the state’s mineral resources and incentives to support Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described mining and metallurgy as key to Nigeria’s transition from hydrocarbon dependence.
“The mining sector provides an exceptional pathway to diversify our revenue, create jobs, and stimulate innovation,” he said.
Chairman of the Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers, Professor AbdulRahman Asipita Salawu, who also serves as Vice Chancellor of CUSTECH, commended the government’s support and pledged his institution’s continued partnership in sector development.
