The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and Kano State government will strengthen ties to develop gold resources in the state. The development is expected to catalyze the realization of the economic diversification agenda of the Federal Government.
The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Arc. Olamilekan Adegbite who described Kano State as a ‘city of excellence and commerce,’ further described it as an ‘ancient city remarkable for transformation of gold into jewelry and artifacts of beauty and adornment.’
A statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mr Edwin Opara said the minister made the point at the Government House, Kano, during his courtesy visit to the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, before he proceeded to the formal launch of ‘Kano Gold Durbar’ held at Ado Bayero Mall, Kano, said in the State Capital.
The minister explained that empirical evidence has shown that Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral resources, waiting to be harnessed for economic gains, adding that the government has open door policy for prospective investors.
He explained that ‘Kano Gold Durbar’ was a programme designed as private sector initiative by investment promotion to celebrate Kano, being a city where conventional business transaction in precious stones, especially, gold is being carried out.
He reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to diversify the economy by developing the solid minerals sector to create jobs through the exploitation of gold and other mineral resources besides oil and gas.
Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, who represented the governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje said Kano State is poised to be the gold hub of Nigeria, adding that the state will collaborate with Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, not only in Gold mining, but also for the development of other solid mineral resources found in the state.
Gawuna expressed hope that the development partnership with the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development will pave way for exploration activities that will create about 250 million jobs for teaming unemployed Nigerian youths.
The Deputy Governor welcomed the minister and his entourage on behalf of the Executive Governor, and assured the minister of the readiness of Kano State government to cooperate with the federal government toward ensuring success of the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI).
