Yobe Govt. Initiates Solid Minerals Exploitation For Economic Diversification
From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe state Gov. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni said the Yobe Mining Development Company Limited is the only agency authorised to deal with all exploration and mining activities across the state.
He stated this on Thursday at a Mining Stakeholders Forum in Damaturu saying the Yobe Mining Company is the designated One-Stop-Shop of the government.
“Yobe state is richly endowed with mineral resources such as limestone, gypsum, kaolin, granite, quartz, and silica, among many others. Yet, for decades, these gifts of nature have remained grossly untapped and underutilised and the time has come to turn these hidden potentials into productive assets that will create jobs, generate wealth, and advance the socio-economic development of our people.”
“Our objective is to chart a coordinated course for growth of the mining sector in Yobe State, in a manner that aligns with federal policy, ensures community inclusion, attracts credible investors, and guarantees environmental responsibility, and
It is also our conviction that responsible mining, when properly managed, can become a major driver of our state’s economic resilience, youth employment, and revenue diversification.”
“We envision a mining sector that operates within a transparent regulatory framework; that upholds environmental sustainability and community benefit; that promotes public-private partnerships anchored on trust and accountability; that encourages local participation while attracting reputable foreign investment” Gov. Buni said.
He charged the stakeholders to concentrate on Mineral Mapping and Data Presentation to showcase Yobe potential, policy and Institutional alignment, Investor Engagement and Incentives,
Roles of Communities and Traditional Institutions among others.
Managing Director of Yobe Mining Development Company, Engr. Bamodu Yerima, said the company has an information repository for feasibility studies in three key mineral sectors including Limestone, for cement and hydrated lime production; Gypsum, for cement, fertiliser, and building materials; and Trona (soda ash), for fertiliser, detergent, and glass production, and reputable consulting firms have been engaged through open and transparent procurement processes to prepare feasibility studies in line with international standards.
He said the Yobe Mining Development Company prioritised organisation of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) operations across Fika, Fune, Gulani, Gujba, Yusufari, and Nangere LGAs.
According to the Managing Director, the company registered artisanal miners into cooperative clusters and provided training, safety tools, and market access for their take off, and Community Development Trust Fund was established to reinvest 5–10% of project profits into education, health, and water infrastructure.
