Kogi State is looking to turn its mineral wealth into electricity, jobs and broader economic opportunities.
Governor Ahmed Ododo says his administration is exploring the use of the state’s extensive solid mineral deposits, particularly coal, to generate power and accelerate development.
Ododo disclosed the plan on Tuesday during a meeting with All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders at the Government House in Lokoja.
Coal identified as a major economic opportunity
The governor said Kogi’s mineral resources have significant economic potential but remain largely underdeveloped.
He singled out coal deposits in Ankpa and other parts of the state as resources that could support the government’s economic agenda, alongside Kogi’s other mineral deposits.
The administration’s goal, he said, is to move beyond simply possessing natural resources and ensure they translate into jobs, investment and improved living conditions for residents.
That strategy would include developing the resources in ways that can generate electricity and strengthen the state’s economic base.
Hundreds of civil service jobs planned
Ododo also announced plans for a fresh recruitment exercise into the Kogi State Civil Service.
The governor said hundreds of qualified residents would have an opportunity to apply, with the process expected to be transparent and competitive.
He linked the planned recruitment to improved government finances, pointing to the implementation of the new minimum wage, higher federal allocations and stronger internally generated revenue.
According to the governor, the improved fiscal position should make it possible to replace some civil servants who have retired or are approaching retirement.
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Ododo calls for unity
The governor said economic resources alone would not guarantee development.
He urged APC leaders, stakeholders and residents to work together, arguing that divisions within the state have made it harder for people to pursue common goals and support one another.
His message was clear: Kogi’s development will require both investment in its resources and cooperation among its people.
Governor credits Tinubu administration
Ododo also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as increased federal support for Kogi.
He highlighted several projects and interventions that he said could expand economic activity and attract investment, including:
- The Abuja–Lokoja–Okene–Benin road corridor
- Development linked to the Ajaokuta Economic City free trade zone
- Federal investment in Kogi’s oil and gas sector
- The proposed Kogi International Airport at Zariagi
The governor said these projects could strengthen transportation, industry and investment while creating wider economic benefits for residents.
The bigger picture
Ododo’s plans combine two priorities: unlocking Kogi’s natural resources and expanding opportunities for its workforce.
If implemented effectively, the administration hopes the strategy will convert the state’s mineral and infrastructure advantages into more reliable power, employment and private-sector activity.
For Kogi, the challenge now is turning those plans into projects that deliver measurable benefits to people across the state.