Stakeholders in Ebonyi State have reiterated the strategic importance of the solid minerals sector in catalysing economic development, while emphasised the role of responsible mining, academic collaboration, and community engagement in harnessing the state’s mineral wealth for sustainable growth.
They also called for enhanced environmental safeguards, promotion of local content, and the institutionalisation of public-private-community partnerships.
This was at a conference held as part of activities marking the second anniversary of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s administration, themed ‘Solid Mineral Resources: The Government and the People, 2023–2025,’ jointly organised by the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, the Ebonyi State Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, and Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
The Governor, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Business Development, Chief Oguzor Offia-Nwali, emphasised the administration’s resolve to reposition the solid minerals sector as a pillar for rural industrialisation, youth employment, and long-term economic resilience.
According to him, the government was intent on transforming the sector through strategic partnerships and policy reforms.
The Governor also commended the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, EBSU, and the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation for fostering a “multi-stakeholder alliance” aimed at responsible resource management. He noted that such partnerships were central to the state’s People’s Charter of Needs – a blueprint for people-centered governance.
Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Chidi Onyia, called the event a historic first for the state, while revealed that over 100 disputes between host communities and mining operators had been amicably resolved since 2023, due to targeted interventions. He also disclosed that the state had acquired key mineral licenses and ramped up enforcement against illegal mining activities.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), EBSU, Professor Ike-Elechi Ogba, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to research and development, expressingthe school’s rediness to collaborate with the government in shaping a future defined by data-driven policy, ethical mining practices, and human capital development.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, Mrs. Chioma Ike-Elechi Ogba, who spoke on behalf of the Foundation, stressed the need to integrate cultural identity, education, and entrepreneurship into the discourse on sustainable development.
“This initiative reflects our belief that Ebonyi’s mineral resources are not just economic assets, but a key part of our cultural heritage,” she stated.
