The Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources Engr. Farouk Yahaya has commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on the Executive bill for a law to Prohibit the Issuance of Mining Permits in Kogi State and Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2024,
Speaking to Assembly Correspondent during the bill public hearing held at the Assembly complex in Lokoja, Engr. Yahaya disclosed that Governor Ododo remains committed for development of the through the available mineral resources.
He asserted that the bill when passed into law will help check the excesses of miners in the State stressing that, Kogi State is blessed with abundant minerals resources to be self sufficient in Nigeria.
While acknowledging that mining activities is reserved in the exclusive legislative list, Engr. Yahaya said the conflict of interest as observed by one of the critical stakeholders can not hinder the success of the bill.
He emphacized that the Assembly in conjunction with the State Ministry of Justice have done their underground work before the bill will become law in the State.
His words “In the areas of conflicts, I believe that before the bill pass through all the process, both the Assembly and the Ministry of Justice will look into the matter and take care of it appropriately.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in several occasions mentioned that our resources is for us and will work for us and that if properly harnessed and utilize, we don’t have any business going to Abuja.
” The preparation of this bill to this stage is a manifestation of this assertion by His Excellency. The take home today is the raising of Kogites hope and the revelation of their resources for it to work for them. By the grace of God, Governor Ododo will succeed”.
Engr. Yahaya seek the support of all stakeholders to ensure quick passage of the bill.