Mining: FG Set to Provide Technical Assistance to States

•  Says diversification plan of the government would be better realized with states’ involvement in mining ventures
  

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has said that the ministry is set to provide logistics and technical assistance to state governments, in their bid to invest in the mining sector.

The minister, who disclosed this when he received Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, in his office, stated that the diversification plan of the government would be better realised with states’ involvement in mining ventures.

Fayemi while lauding Governor Umahi’s commitment to tapping the mineral deposits in his state, added that the federal government wants successful projects at state level that will help to showcase our seriousness in becoming a mining nation”

Fayemi, who, together with the Minister of State, Hon. Abubakar Bawa Bwari, received Umahi, said the ministry’s budget for 2017 has captured exploration, reclamation of mining sites and organisation of artisan miners, among other things that would repositioned the sector.

He however commended Governor Umahi for making Ebonyi State a mining destination, saying that the state is a model for others to emulate. He assured the governor that the ministry has put together an environmental team to work on reclamation of mining sites for the welfare of the host communities.