Alake Reveals FG's Readiness To Facilitate Mining Licences For States

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Federal Government has reassured State Governments on acquisition of Mining Licences for Solid Minerals Sector Development.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, gave the assurance during the visit of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Alake, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, said the Federal Government backs Oyo State Government to obtain mining licences.

Reiterating the Ministry’s support for sub-national entities in the country to develop the sector, the Minister emphasised that cooperation with states will develop the mining industry value-chain and promote value addition for maximum beneficiation to host communities.

Meanwhile, Governor Makinde disclosed in his remarks that his visit was basically to follow-up on the application of the state for mining license, stating that Oyo state is on the verge of establishing a state-owned mining corporation.

The Governor also revealed that his State is poised to invest in the value chain of Lithium, gemstone, gold, and marble and has applied for mining licences to execute them.

According to him, the State’s mining company has secured partnerships with investors.

“I came to give the Minister the official report of mining activities in Oyo state and brief him on efforts to curb illegal mining.

“Last week, we had to demolish an unlawful lithium processing facility. I seized the opportunity to inform him about what transpired and to seek his support and collaboration for the mining sector in my state because it is a catalyst for development.

“Quite several investors are coming into the state, and we are supporting them, creating an enabling environment to not only facilitate extraction of minerals but also value addition through processing of raw materials”, he said.

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