The Edo State Government has approved Chinese companies to begin exploring coal resources in the state as part of efforts to improve electricity supply.
The firms are also expected to venture into cement manufacturing and the production of ceramic tiles using locally sourced clay.
The Commissioner for Mining, Andrew Ijegbai, disclosed this in an interview, noting that Governor Okpebholo has directed the ministry to intensify exploration of mineral resources across Edo.
Ijegbai expressed confidence that, in the coming years, revenue from the mining sector could become substantial enough to sustain the state’s finances.
He explained that ongoing feasibility studies would determine the volume of electricity that could be generated from coal deposits.
According to him, the state government has also taken steps to curb illegal mining, revealing that five illegal mining groups have been prosecuted.
He said, “Okpebholo has released a lot of money for us to do lots of exploration to find out various minerals we have. We have two Chinese companies that have signed an MOU to embark on cement production. The Governor just signed that about a month ago. They will start operations very soon.
“We cannot quantify the potential of Edo’s solid minerals. Imagine the contract agreement we signed with the Chinese firms to commence cement production. It will generate a lot of money. They will be involved in quarrying, use our coal to generate electricity, and use our clay to produce tiles. It is kind of a four-in-one project. It is going to generate a lot of income. By the time it kicks off, it will create a lot of jobs.
“Anybody who mines in Edo these days is required to get the necessary documentation. Before now, people just obtained a license from the federal government without the consent of the communities. They go into the bush and start mining, and they will tell you they have a license. But these days, we ensure the miners collect consent of the community who is the property owner.”
