Kogi Governor Connects Youth Empowerment with Security Initiatives to Tackle Illegal Mining
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has firmly stated that his administration will not negotiate with criminals. He has introduced a comprehensive strategy that combines proactive security measures with youth empowerment to combat illegal mining and unlock the state’s extensive solid mineral resources for economic advancement.
At the Kogi State Security and Mines Summit for Youths in Abuja, Governor Ododo emphasized a dual approach: enhancing security while equipping young citizens with practical skills in mining and jewelry craftsmanship. This initiative aims to create sustainable job opportunities and thwart access to the state’s mineral wealth by criminal entities.
Highlighting the significance of Kogi’s geographical position—bordering ten states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—Ododo stated that ensuring the security of Kogi is vital for the overall safety of Abuja and the nation. “The security of Kogi State directly impacts the security of the FCT. When there is insecurity in Kogi, it extends to Abuja; thus, we are committed to addressing these challenges proactively,” he remarked.
The governor asserted his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating crime, making it clear that Kogi State will not tolerate criminal behavior. “Kogi State is not a haven for criminals. We will not negotiate or engage in dialogue with them,” he reiterated.
Ododo noted that while many mineral-rich regions in Nigeria suffer from insecurity, Kogi State has adopted a different approach. By allowing youths to legally engage in mining and value addition, the state aims to prevent exploitation by criminal networks. He spoke about Kogi’s abundant reserves of gold, lithium, coal, beryllium, iron ore, and gemstones, many of which remain underdeveloped.
“Although we possess these minerals, they have not been fully utilized. We are focused on unlocking our potential in ways that benefit the community,” he explained. The establishment of the Confluence University of Science and Technology is part of this strategy to cultivate a skilled workforce that can stimulate the mining industry in the state. “To develop a product, we must first train individuals who can contribute effectively. We have the minerals, but we also need knowledgeable experts to harness them,” he added.
The Youth Miners and Jewelers program aims to furnish participants with practical skills that promote sustainable livelihoods, addressing both unemployment and security issues. “We are here to witness firsthand the empowerment initiatives in mining and jewelry, as we want our people to leverage our resources,” he stated, stressing the importance of teaching self-sustainability. “In Kogi State, we pledge not to provide fish to our youth, but rather teach them how to fish so they can independently support themselves,” he said.
Ododo shared the state’s collaboration with renowned mining and jewelry professionals from the UK, US, and other nations to implement global best practices in Kogi. “We request experts to return to their roots and replicate their successful initiatives here, making Kogi State a model for others,” he added.
He also praised President Bola Tinubu for encouraging a focus on youth empowerment as a sustainable response to unemployment and insecurity. “I am grateful to the president for urging me to serve the people and get the youth off the streets. He highlighted that we should empower them, and that’s precisely what we are doing,” Ododo concluded.
Reinforcing his faith in the program’s potential to curb illegal mining, he noted that it aims to cultivate qualified operators to manage the state’s mineral resources. “Upon completing this program, these individuals will control valuable resources and curtail the illegal activities of those currently plundering them,” he stated.
At the launch of the Kogi Youth Miners and Jewelers Empowerment Programme, Ododo called on the youth to support the federal government’s initiatives, which focus on promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and enhanced livelihoods. “The Federal Government has initiated several programs that significantly impact the lives of many youths in Nigeria. I urge the youth of Kogi to reciprocate the love shown to them through hard work and community contributions,” he encouraged.
Noting that Kogi has approximately 32 solid mineral deposits with enormous economic promise, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering self-reliant entrepreneurs instead of creating dependency on government assistance. Dr. Olusola Aujola, the Managing Director of Malibuhood Luxury and a technical partner in the program, hailed this initiative as one of the first of its kind in West Africa, emphasizing its focus on converting local mineral resources into finished products rather than exporting them raw.
Aujola reported that Kogi has received 16,900 applications for the program, with many more from neighboring countries like Ghana, Mali, and South Africa. Following a thorough review, 13,900 valid applications were processed, and 20 participants were selected for the inaugural batch, with plans to accept an additional 60 to 70 trainees by the year’s end as part of a five-year implementation strategy. Participants will undergo a three-month intensive training program that covers mining, jewelry design, craftsmanship, and other specialized sectors in accordance with international standards.
“Training qualified individuals with the right licenses will ensure responsible mining practices and significantly diminish the concerns surrounding illegal mining,” he noted. One beneficiary, Mr. Tadabiojo Faith Omachi from Obu Local Government Area, described the program as a transformative opportunity and vowed to maximize the educational investment. “We are thankful for this vital investment in our future and will utilize this knowledge to train others in our community, ensuring its benefits reach across the state,” Omachi affirmed.
