Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has assured host communities of major economic transformation as mining operations begin in their areas.
Spokesperson of the governor, Ismaila Isah, stated this during an Interview with Rapid TV in Abuja on Thursday.
He said with the recent acquisition of 15 mining licenses, the government will reinvigorate the economy in local communities across the state.
He said youths will lead in the emerging solid minerals economy in Kogi state.
“Kogi has over 32 mineral deposits, all in commercial quantities. The state government has floated a special purpose vehicle (SPV), under the solid minerals development company, to open up the mining sector to foreign and local investors. We have acquired 15 mining licenses and ready to go into full mining business.
“Our approach is to make these mining activities community-owned. We are encouraging communities to float cooperatives that will allow them become critical stakeholders in the mining sector.
Aside the usual corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts that companies present to our people, we want communities to have a say in the running of mining activities in their lands.
“We will also ensure our youths play critical roles in the mining operations. The state government has unveiled plans to train 25,000 youths to take the lead in the mineral exploration we are embarking upon,” he said.
Isah said Governor Ododo is currently in China where is holding discussions with the international community on investment opportunities in Kogi state.
He said, “We run a very smart government with smart people on board. Some of them have been in government for well over eight years and are grounded in the business of governance.”
