Kogi State Expands Solid Minerals Sector with Acquisition of 30 Mining Titles

Kogi State Expands Solid Minerals Sector with Acquisition of 30 Mining Titles

 

 

The Kogi State Government has taken a major step to develop its solid minerals sector by acquiring 30 mining titles across all 21 Local Government Areas of the state.

 

This announcement was made on Thursday in Lokoja during the grand finale of the 2025 Kogi State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Week, themed “Kogi State Solid Minerals: How Journalists Can Drive Development.”

 

The State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Bashiru Gegu, highlighted that the move is part of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo’s efforts to diversify revenue sources and stimulate economic growth. Represented at the event by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Abdulsalam Hudu, Gegu emphasized that Kogi is richly endowed with minerals such as iron ore, limestone, coal, gold, and tantalite, which have remained largely untapped.

 

“It is important to note that Gov. Ododo’s efforts increased mineral titles from the existing 15 to 30 across the state. The acquisition of these titles reflects the administration’s determination to strengthen the state’s revenue base,” Gegu said.

 

 

 

The commissioner also announced that Kogi has acquired modern mining equipment, including excavators, loaders, and dump trucks, to boost sector development and reduce reliance on oil revenue.

 

> “With these tools, the state is better positioned to compete with major mining companies. Our administration is prioritizing industrialization, job creation, and sustainable revenue diversification,” he added.

 

 

 

Gegu called on journalists to support the development of the sector through investigative reporting and policy advocacy, ensuring responsible and sustainable mining practices.

 

The guest speaker, Dr. Tope Joel, recommended that the state establish a solid minerals development company with a trained directorate to regulate and monitor mining activities. He emphasized the media’s role in reporting on mining activities to promote socio-economic development.

 

Earlier, NUJ Chairman Alhaji Ademu Seidu appealed to the state government to restore end-of-year financial support for members, fulfill its promise to provide a new bus for the union, and renovate the NUJ colonial building and the Lord Lugard wooden house. He praised Governor Ododo for creating a peaceful and conducive environment for media operations.

 

The event also featured the conferment of awards on individuals and government officials recognized for their positive contributions to society.