The Federal Government has struck a partnership with the Osun and Kebbi state governments; to develop gold mining.
The pilot scheme of the presidential initiative to streamline gold mining for the benefit of the people, the artisans and the governments, would soon be launched.
Niger, Kaduna, Zamfara – which possess mineral resources in large volume, would also enjoy the federal government’s partnership, to boost the plan to diversify the nation’s economy from its reliance on oil
The initiative in Osun, Kebbi and other states, is based on the volume of available gold deposits and the willingness of the state governments to develop the mining sector to generate resources, and to create jobs for their people.
There is large deposit of gold in the eastern part of Osun State which is currently being mined haphazardly with little or no control from government.
Osun Governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, who was excited about the prospects in the plan for his people, said: “I look forward to the effects this will have on our people with the job opportunities and the chance for a better life for our people who are ready to take advantage of the natural resources they have in their backyard.
“For us, as a government, we will improve on our revenue generation and, therefore, have the resources to be able to cater for the needs of our people. It is good to streamline activities at the mining sites, to standardise things and ensure the all stakeholders get the benefits–the community, the people and government,” the governor said.