Benue State says it is seeking more investors and strategic partnerships to develop its abundant solid mineral resources, including gold deposits in Owukpa and other parts of the state.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development and Community Mobilisation, Mathias Agbo Omikpa, disclosed this in an interview with Voice of Nigeria in Abuja, saying the state was determined to diversify its economy beyond agriculture.
Omikpa said Benue had substantial mineral deposits that could create economic opportunities, generate revenue and improve the livelihoods of residents if properly developed.
“Benue sits on a lot of solid minerals. We are not just an agrarian state. We have good, large deposits of mineral resources which His Excellency is keen on exploiting for the benefit of the people,” he said.
He explained that the state government was seeking investors willing to partner with it to harness the resources and expand economic activities.
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“We are still yearning for more investors. We have gold and other natural resources found in Owukpa and other places in Benue, and the Governor is desirous—he wants us to exploit it. We’re looking for partnership,” Omikpa said.
Economic Governance
The Special Adviser noted that some investors had indicated interest in the state’s mineral resources, but stressed that mining development required collaboration with the Federal Government.
“Some are coming and indicating interest, but, you know, it’s not just a state affair. It has to be in connection with the Federal Government when mining,” he said.
Omikpa added that the state government was interested in developing all its natural resources to maximise their contribution to economic growth and public welfare.
He said the administration was focusing on opportunities across the natural resources sector, rather than limiting its economic development plans to agriculture.
“On that, he’s not just focusing; he’s focusing on all natural resources that God has blessed the state with so that we can exploit it for the maximum good of the people,” he said.
The renewed drive to attract investment comes as Benue seeks to broaden its economic base through the development of mineral resources, alongside its established agricultural activities.
The state government’s proposed partnerships could create opportunities for private-sector participation, subject to the necessary approvals, regulatory requirements and collaboration with relevant Federal Government agencies.
The development of solid minerals is also expected to require responsible mining practices, effective regulation and safeguards for host communities and the environment.
The government says it remains open to investors and partners interested in developing Benue’s mineral resources for the benefit of the state and its people.
