Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Engr. Bashir Muhammed Abubakar, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring that mineral resources translate into tangible benefits for citizens.
Engr. Abubakar made the remarks while defending the Ministry of Solid Minerals’ 2026 budget before the Kogi State House of Assembly.
According to the commissioner, Kogi State is richly endowed with solid mineral resources and therefore has no reason to remain poor if the sector is properly harnessed.
He commended the state governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, describing him as a leader with “listening ears” who is genuinely committed to serving the people and driving solid minerals development.
Engr. Abubakar highlighted key challenges in the sector to include mobility, enforcement of Community Development Agreements (CDAs), and the need for stronger Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments from mining companies.
He maintained that the areas are central to the governor’s agenda of ensuring that mineral exploitation directly benefits host communities.
“The governor wants our resources and minerals to work for our people,” he said, adding that the administration’s philosophy is to move “from pit to progress and from pit to prosperity,” rather than allowing resources to be diverted for private gain.
The commissioner further noted that Kogi State’s approach aligns with the New Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the state has embedded the federal policy framework into its own development strategies.
He expressed optimism that, with the support of the 8th Assembly and sustained collaboration between the executive and legislature, the Ministry of Solid Minerals would deliver improved performance in 2026.
Earlier, the Chairman, House Standing Committee on Solid Minerals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Member Representing Ijumu State Constituency, Hon. Omotayo Adeleye Ishaya, who said the budget defence was a constitutional requirement, noted that the committee is saddled with the responsibility of scrutinizing budget estimates, verifying details, and where necessary, questioning how previous budgets were implemented.
Describing the legislature and executive as co-managers of the economy and drivers of development, the Lawmaker called for harmony and cooperation to ensure effective supervision and control during budget implementation.
He appealed to all stakeholders to avoid actions that could impede the successful execution of the 2026 budget.