From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Federal Government has lauded the Nasarawa State Government for its sustained cooperation and active role in developing the solid minerals sector.
The commendation was made yesterday by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, during an event in Lafia. Represented by the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom, the Minister highlighted the significant contributions of the Nasarawa State Government under the leadership of Governor Abdullahi Sule.
According to the Minister, Nasarawa State has become a thriving hub for mineral investments and other business ventures due to the favorable business environment fostered by the policies and programs of the Sule administration.
“You will agree with me that His Excellency’s contributions and the achievements recorded in the renewed hope agenda in the minerals sector cannot be overemphasized,” Alake stated.
He emphasized the seamless coordination and cooperation between the state and federal agencies, particularly the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. The Minister noted that Governor Sule’s dedication to the sector was evident from his very first official visit to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development upon assuming office.
“This commitment was further demonstrated during the groundbreaking events of Gafen Lithium Processing and Avatar News Energy Lithium Processing Plant in Nasarawa Local Government Area, which is now the largest lithium processing facility in the world,” he added.
The Minister also praised Governor Sule’s proactive approach to managing security issues, acknowledging that mineral-rich areas are often plagued by chaos and insecurity.
“We are pleased that Nasarawa State has not been turned into a war zone, thanks to your careful and proactive management of the situation,” he said.
Regarding the ongoing disputes involving Gafen and Lidel Mining Companies, the Minister revealed that the concerns raised in the committee’s report had been approved.
“We had issues, particularly the case between the community and the company Gafen, among others. The Governor set up a high-powered delegation to address these concerns, and it is unusual to see such commitment from a governor,” the Minister explained.
Alake also conveyed the Minister’s approval of the committee’s recommendation to allocate control of a 3.5 CU area, as per the agreement.
“The Minister has graciously approved the recommendation to appropriately divide the area,” he said.
In his response, Governor Abdullahi Sule expressed gratitude to the Minister for the reforms introduced to the mining sector and the robust partnership with various states.
“For the resolution of the 3.5 CU, I want to sincerely thank you for the allocation. This brings so much benefit to Nasarawa State, and we will ensure transparency in handling this allocation,” Governor Sule stated.
He further assured that one-third of the 1.5 CU allocated to the state would be dedicated to community development, with stakeholders deciding on the most pressing needs, such as schools or clinics.