The Edo State Government has announced the acquisition of 40 new licences for solid mineral deposits within the state through Associates Mining and Investment Company, a special-purpose vehicle backed by the state government.
Enaholo Ojiefoh, the Commissioner for Mining and Energy, revealed this development in Benin, emphasising the state’s proactive approach to prevent exploitation and ensure equitable industrial growth.
Ojiefoh highlighted the state’s intention to lease these licences to private investors keen on tapping into the mineral wealth of the region.
“Upon getting the licences, we went back to the drawing board. We engaged with the Community Development Associations in the areas where these solid minerals are found. Between December and January this year, we have received not less than 14 visitors, who are all interested in bringing their money in,” he stated.
“The governor has asked that this be transformed into money. So, we are looking at industrialisation. A commodities trading and mineral analysis centre is being completed in Dangbala in Akoko Edo. We have had to train our staff, working with a research team from the universities.”
He added, “We have professors in geology, geophysics, industrial chemistry and biochemistry working with us on the project. We have staff across the state working on identifying more minerals.”
Ojiefoh highlighted the presence of kaolin deposits in Ubiaja, situated in the Edo Central Senatorial District, and gypsum reserves in Warrake, among others, illustrating the abundant mineral wealth of the state.