How Governor Mbah's Appointment of Engr. Onyinye Okoro in the Solid Minerals Sector Is Powering Enugu’s Mining Comeback in the Solid Minerals Sector




Enugu is blessed with a lot of natural resources that are both tapped and untapped in different ways. Enugu's mining activities rose to prominence in 1909 after the then British Government discovered coal before it started mining in 1915.


This made the state become the hub for migrant workers across the globe after the construction of the Port Harcourt railway lines.


Aside from coal, the state is blessed with other natural resources such as: limestone, iron ore, gypsum, clay, shale, sandstone, amongst others.


However, since the coal mining stopped, successive governments have done little or nothing to revitalize the mining sector of the state and turn it into a pure renowned revenue-generating source until Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah came with a roadmap to making Enugu a safe haven for the mining sector with the appointment of Engr. Samuel Onyinye Okoro as his Special Adviser on Solid Mineral Mining.


The appointment of this intelligent and professional son of Nkanu land, who is also the Chairman of MERIMCO, underscores Governor Peter Mba's commitment to harnessing the expertise of young, seasoned professionals in his administration. This strategic move is poised to revolutionize the mining sector in Enugu State, leveraging Okoro's over 20 years of hands-on experience in the industry.


Enugu's coal deposits, renowned for their exceptional quality, are set to contribute significantly to Nigeria's energy mix. The administration's proactive approach transforms the mining landscape, activates dormant assets, and stimulates economic growth. The formalization of mining activities is expected to hike royalty payments to the federal government, ensuring a steady revenue stream.


The administration's efforts to regulate the sector are anticipated to curb illegal mining activities, reduce conflicts between communities, and promote a more stable environment. The growth of the mining sector is expected to generate employment opportunities for Enugu indigenes, contributing to the state's economic development. Establishing registered mining companies owned by Enugu indigenes will further solidify the state's position in the mining industry.


Moreover, the administration is adopting best practices in tune with world mining standards, similar to those in Australia, where safety, environmental sustainability, and community engagement are prioritized. This approach will enhance the sector's productivity and ensure that Enugu State's mining industry operates responsibly and sustainably.


Governor Peter Mba's administration is firmly committed to developing Enugu State's mining sector, driven by the expertise and vision of professionals like Engineer Samuel Onyinye Okoro. This strategic approach is poised to yield significant economic benefits, cementing Enugu's position as a leader in Nigeria's mining industry.


Ifeanyichukwu Nnamani

Australian certified Surface Coal Mine Safety Expert,

MD, Earthcore Mining and Energy Resources.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

TRAGEDY: Former Enugu Commissioner, Edoga Kidnapped!

Image
   In a heartbreaking news, the former Commissioner for Lands and former Head of Service in Enugu State, Surv. Barr. Albert Edoga, has been reportedly kidnapped along the Opi Nsukka - Ugwogo Nike Road.  In light of this distressing situation, there are urgent calls for the intervention of security agencies to take swift action to secure his safe release.  Reports confirmed that the incident took place on Friday, 31st January 2025, Edoga is believed to still be in captivity. Agu Chineme: reporting from Enugu More Details loading.... Surv. Barr. Albert Edoga
Read more

[VIDEO] Woman Miraculously Rescued from Yahoo-Plus Ritualist in Abuja Hotel

Image
In a chilling incident that occurred on Wednesday, September 19, 2024, a woman's life was saved after her desperate cries for help exposed an alleged ritual attempt in an Abuja hotel. The scene unfolded at Top View Hotel, Wuse Zone 5, where hotel staff rushed to rescue the woman from a harrowing ordeal. According to witnesses, the woman's screams were heard from one of the hotel rooms, prompting hotel staff to act swiftly. When they entered the room, they found the woman completely naked, her hands and legs bound with sellotape, which also encircled her neck. Her screams had alerted the employees just in time, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome. Staff members quickly confronted the man believed to be behind the attack, accusing him of attempting to use the woman for ritual purposes. In a tense confrontation, they forced him to cut the sellotape restraining the woman. The victim, visibly shaken, quickly covered herself with her clothes as the situation deescalated....
Read more

BREAKING: World Bank Condemns Tinubu’s Wasteful Spending Amidst Nigeria's Economic Hardship, Advices For Urgent Financial Reforms

Image
The World Bank has raised serious concerns about wasteful spending by the Nigerian government under President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a key contributor to the country's economic woes. In its latest Nigeria Development Update, the global financial institution expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government's financial management, urging greater transparency and accountability. A key area of concern is the administration’s extravagant spending on non-essential items, even as Nigeria grapples with widespread economic challenges. The report highlighted the allocation of billions to luxury purchases, including a staggering N9.2 billion spent on State House vehicles within three months. Another N250 million was reportedly spent on event decorations for the First Lady in just five days, while additional billions went towards renovations, honorariums, and forex acquisitions. Perhaps most alarming was the purchase of a new presidential jet, costing the nation N150 billion, at a...
Read more