THE Kogi State Government has acquired 15 mining licenses as part of its drive to harness the state’s vast mineral resources and attract investment into the mining sector.
This was disclosed by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo yesterday during the 2025 International Conference of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers held in Lokoja. The governor was represented by his deputy, Joel Oyibo.
In a statement issued today by the State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, Governor Ododo emphasized that the administration is strategically positioning the state to become a hub for mining in Nigeria by creating a conducive environment for both domestic and international investors.
“With over 30 mineral resources, including iron ore, coal, limestone, gold, marble, dolomite, and tantalite, Kogi is at the heart of Nigeria’s mineral map,” Ododo said. He also highlighted major industrial sites in the state such as Ajaokuta Steel Complex, Itakpe Iron Ore Mines, and Obajana and Mangal Cement Plants.
The governor revealed that the state has invested heavily in modern mining equipment for the Kogi State Mineral Processing Company. This initiative aims to add value to raw materials extracted in the state and promote industrialization.
“These licenses cover key resources such as limestone, coal, tin, iron ore, and bauxite. We are laying the foundation for sustainable mining that will drive job creation, generate revenue, and contribute to Kogi’s and Nigeria’s economic development,” he said.
Ododo also disclosed ongoing collaboration with the State Assembly to enact laws against illegal mining, support artisanal miners, and ensure environmentally sustainable practices.
The state is also focusing on human capital development. The governor noted that 25,000 youths will be trained for roles in the mining sector, while significant investments have been made in technical and vocational education.
He pointed to the establishment of 11 engineering programmes at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, including mining and metallurgical engineering, supported by modern labs and workshops.
“We are linking academia and industry to produce graduates who are industry-ready,” he added. “This positions Kogi as a future leader in mining education and a key contributor to Nigeria’s industrialization.”
Ododo concluded by calling on investors to explore the opportunities in the state’s mineral-rich landscape.
In his keynote, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Alake Oladele Henry, noted that as the global economy evolves, Nigeria must diversify beyond hydrocarbons, with mining offering significant potential.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers, Prof. AbdulRahman Asipita Salawu—who is also the Vice Chancellor of CUSTECH—praised the government’s support and urged investors to leverage the state’s incentives.