Alake supports Oyo Government’s request for mining licences, development of industry value addition

*Dr. Oladele Alake, Minister for Solid Minerals Development, assures of the Federal Government’s support for sub-national entities to develop the mining sector of the Nigerian economy towards developing the industry value-chain for maximum beneficiation to host communities across the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Dr. Oladele Alake, Honourable Minister for Solid Minerals Development, has said the Federal Government will support the Oyo State Government to obtain mining licences.

Alake, who stated this during the recent visit of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to his office in Abuja, FCT, noted the Ministry’s support for sub-national entities in the country to develop the sector.

Segun Tomori, Special Assistant  to the Minister on Media Friday, April 19, 2024, stated Dr. Alake also emphasised that cooperation with states would develop the mining industry value-chain, and promote value addition for maximum beneficiation to host communities.

Oyo poised to invest in Lithium, gemstone, gold and marble value chains: Makinde

In his remarks, Gov. Makinde revealed that his visit was necessitated by the need 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 Oyo State Governor stated: “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 took 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.”

Makinde also revealed that the 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.

“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,” the Oyo State Governor affirmed.