The Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor, Ismaila Isah, has stated that the state’s mining sector is set for a major transformation that will directly benefit local communities. He said this during an interview on Rapid TV in Abuja on Thursday.
According to Isah, the administration of Governor Usman Ododo is laying the groundwork for economic development across Kogi through strategic mining initiatives and infrastructure projects. He revealed that the state had recently secured 15 mining licences as part of efforts to reinvigorate its economy.
“Kogi boasts over 32 mineral deposits, all in commercial quantities. We’ve established a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Solid Minerals Development Company to open the sector to both local and international investors,” Isah said.
He explained that the state’s new mining strategy places local communities at the heart of operations. Through the formation of cooperatives, residents will become key stakeholders, with the goal of fostering community ownership of mineral resources. He added that, beyond corporate social responsibility, the government wants communities to play an active role in managing mining activities on their land.
In a bold youth empowerment plan, Isah announced that the government intends to train 25,000 young people to lead the charge in the emerging solid minerals economy.
While updating the public on the governor’s overseas engagement, Isah said Governor Ododo is currently in China, holding discussions with potential investors and partners interested in Kogi’s mining, agriculture, education, healthcare, power, and transportation sectors.
“The Governor isn’t just looking for investment; he’s also negotiating platforms for technology transfer and manpower exchange that will accelerate development in critical sectors,” he noted.
Describing the administration as a “smart government with smart people,” Isah highlighted the experience of the Governor’s team, some of whom have been in public service for over eight years. He said the team is committed to showcasing Kogi’s full economic potential to global investors.
Touching on agriculture, Isah said Governor Ododo is determined to transform the sector through mechanised farming and targeted support for rural farmers. He said under the ‘one farmer, one hectare’ initiative, the state cultivated nearly 10,000 hectares of farmland last year, and plans are underway to expand the figure to 50,000 hectares.
“We’re equipping our farmers with modern tools like tractors to boost productivity. We’re also prioritising security for both farmers and farmlands,” he stated.
Isah further noted that the government is compiling a comprehensive social register to ensure the fair distribution of grants and support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
On healthcare, he announced the expansion of the state’s health insurance scheme to include pregnant women, elderly people, widows of ex-servicemen, and infants.
“Governor Ododo is in a hurry to deliver. He understands the grassroots because he grew up there. He’s committed to making an impact across all sectors,” Isah concluded, adding that the administration will carry every stakeholder along, regardless of political affiliation.
