Sule Invites Investors To Tap Into Mineral Wealth Available In The State

Rabiu Omaku

Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has called on both local and foreign investors to explore the State’s vast mineral resources, stressing the importance of following due process.

Governor Sule made this appeal during the opening day of the 5th edition of the African Resources and Energy Investments Summit held at the Banquet Hall, Aso Rock, Abuja.

The summit attracted a diverse assembly of local and international investors, industry leaders, foreign envoys, and experts from the mining sector. It provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and work towards a future where Africa’s natural wealth is fully leveraged for development.

According to Dele Alake, the convener of the summit and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the event aims to inspire an African continent where natural resources drive industrial growth and equity, aligning with the Agenda 2063 vision.

During his address, the Honorable Minister shed light on the challenges facing African countries, specifically addressing the electricity generation landscape.

He noted that the energy market is projected to reach an estimated 866.8 billion kilowatt-hours, growing at an annual rate of 1.75% from 2005 to 2009. The majority of this energy is consumed by residential areas, leaving many Africans without access to electricity.

“Facing these challenges, the present administration under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is implementing the Presidential Natural Gas CNG initiative to alleviate the demand for petroleum, and Nigerians are embracing this change,” he remarked.

He underscored that while energy remains critical, the future of Africa’s mineral resources is just as vital.

Nigeria is home to over 40 types of mineral resources, including gold, lithium, and mica. However, many of these resources remain unprocessed, presenting a paradox that must be urgently addressed.

“Africa has been a supplier of raw materials for too long. Which foster job creation, industrial growth, and economic sovereignty,” Dr. Dele urged.

A succession of speakers from the energy and mining sectors reinforced the potential of harnessing African resources for sustainable development.

The Commissioner, Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Dr. Margaret Elayo, who represented Governor Abdullahi Sule’s office, stressed that Nasarawa State, with its rich deposits of minerals such as limestone, coal, lithium, gold and dolomite, is primed for investment.

“Investors looking for new opportunities in Africa should consider Nasarawa State not only for its wealth of resources but also for the supportive policies being introduced by the State Government,” the representative stated.

The Governor’s administration is focused on creating an enabling environment for investors, including streamlined regulatory processes and attractive incentives. This approach aims to ensure that foreign investment contributes to responsible mining practices that protect the environment and benefit local communities.