In a bid to explore its huge solid mineral potential, Edo government has engaged stakeholders and experts to explore the deposits and develop the sector for economic benefit of the state.
To this end, a two-day workshop has been held in Benin with the theme,’Exploring the Solid Mineral Potential of Edo State,’ under the chairmanship of the Minister of Mines and Solid Mineral Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
The workshop, according to the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, who declared it open on behalf of Governor Godwin Obaseki, is a platform for experts and stakeholders in the field of mining and environment to brainstorm and come up with ideas on how best to harness the huge solid minerals while giving due consideration to environmental safety.
Shaibu said the workshop is in line with the policy thrust of the administration; to be properly guided before venturing into any project, and explained that various workshops were organised to get it right during implementation process. He reassured of the administration’s determination to create jobs and economic prosperity for the people.
The deputy governor urged participants to make the communiqué comprehensive for easy implementation.
The minister, in his remarks, said states can have joint venture with companies and apply for mining licences to tap raw materials in their domains.
Delivering his lecture on the subject matter, Dr. Osakpolor Omorogbe of Benson Idahosa University, Benin, urged the state government to put adequate measures in place to check the environmental impact associated with mining.