By Yahaya Idris
As part of its economic revitalization efforts, the Kogi State Government has extended an invitation for partnership to Canadian investors, focusing on the state’s abundant mineral resources and other vital sectors.
Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State declared in a message to the Third International Conference on Raw Materials (ICERMS) 2024, that growth in the sector will create job openings for youths across the country, particularly in Kogi.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Dr. Folashade Ayoade, the Governor said Canada and Kogi State have abundant natural resources in common which needed to be tapped for wealth creation.
“The proposed partnership between Kogi State and Canada represents a high-potential avenue for transforming natural resources into wealth, enhancing living standards, and safeguarding the environment. The interactions undertaken since our arrival and anticipated business formations are poised to demonstrate optimal international cooperation, reconciling economic progress with sustainable practices.,” the Governor assured.
He affirmed that strategic partnerships with Canadian businesses will generate significant economic and social value, creating pathways to new markets, enhancing employment opportunities, and augmenting revenue through improved mineral output.
Ododo confirmed that Canadian enterprises will secure direct access to Kogi’s valuable raw materials, crucial for global industries, enabling collaborative leveraging of these resources for mutually beneficial sustainable development.
The Governor also sought cooperation with Canadian firms to implement advanced mining technologies for optimal extraction and processing of solid minerals.
“Canadian expertise would be highly valuable in areas such as advanced geological surveys, state-of-the-art equipment, and sustainable mining methods.,” Governor Ododo maintained.
According to the Governor, another key area for cooperation lies in structured training and capacity development programs, enabled through collaborative partnerships that foster mutual knowledge exchange.
“Kogi’s workforce can receive training from Canadian professionals on sustainable mining practices, health and safety standards, and environmental management to align with local and international regulations.”, he said.
He advocated for Joint Venture Partnerships between Kogi and Canadian companies, emphasizing the significant advantages of combining resources, expertise, and market access for mutually beneficial mining ventures.
The Governor stressed that both regions can learn from each other’s approaches to sustainable development, with Canada’s track record in balancing mining with environmental responsibility providing valuable insights for Kogi to minimize ecological impacts and protect its ecosystem.
A delegation from Kogi State Government, headed by Secretary to the State Government Dr. Folashade Ayoade Arikye, includes Hon. Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources Engineer Bashir Mohammed Abubakar Gegu and Director General, Research and Development, Mr. Moses Okeize-Okafor, on a visit to Canada.
Director General, Research and Development, Mr. Moses Okeize-Okafor, (L), Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Dr. Folashade Ayoade (M) Hon. Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources Engineer Bashir Mohammed Abubakar Gegu (R)
