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By Stephen Adeleye
The Kogi State Government has acquired 30 mineral titles across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state, in a bold move to harness its vast solid mineral resources and diversify its economy.
The Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, disclosed this on Thursday in Lokoja during the grand finale of the 2025 Kogi State NUJ Press Week, themed “Kogi State Solid Minerals: How Journalists Can Drive Development.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Abdulsalam Hudu, Gegu said the acquisition was part of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo’s efforts to expand the state’s revenue base, industrialize the economy, and reduce dependence on oil.
“Kogi is richly endowed with iron ore, limestone, coal, gold, and tantalite, yet the sector has remained largely untapped. Through Governor Ododo’s efforts, the number of mineral titles in the state has doubled from 15 to 30,” he stated.
He added that the government had procured high-grade excavators, loaders, and dump trucks to strengthen mining operations and compete effectively with private companies.
According to him, the administration is committed to sustainable and responsible mining practices that will generate jobs, stimulate industrialization, and create multiple revenue streams for the state.
The commissioner also called on journalists to play a critical role in advancing the sector through investigative reporting, policy advocacy, and promoting responsible mining practices.
In his presentation, the Guest Speaker, Dr. Tope Joel, urged the state government to establish a solid mineral development company with a professional directorate to regulate and monitor mining activities. He emphasized the need for the media to report proactively on the sector to ensure that the state’s mineral wealth is fully harnessed for socio-economic growth.
Earlier, Kogi NUJ Chairman, Mr. Ademu Seidu, appealed to the government to reinstate end-of-year financial assistance to journalists, redeem its pledge of providing a new bus for the union, and renovate the NUJ colonial building and the Lord Lugard wooden house within its premises.
Seidu commended the Ododo-led administration for fostering a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for media practice in the state. He highlighted achievements such as the revival of the NUJ clinic and the expansion of the Council hall, while noting ongoing financial challenges in running the Secretariat.
The event also featured the conferment of awards on individuals and government officials for their outstanding contributions to society.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
