Ododo Declares War on Illegal Mining, Rules Out Dialogue with Criminals

Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has declared an uncompromising stance against illegal mining, vowing to combat criminals with aggressive security measures and youth empowerment initiatives. Ododo stated that his administration will "never negotiate or dialogue with them," emphasizing that Kogi will not be a haven for criminals.

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The security of Kogi State is the security of the FCT. Any overflow of insecurity into Kogi will become a problem for Abuja. That is why we have taken it upon ourselves to address insecurity head-on.

The governor outlined a dual strategy to address illegal mining and unlock the state's mineral wealth. This approach involves strengthening security while simultaneously equipping young people with practical skills in mining and jewelry craftsmanship. The goal is to create sustainable jobs and prevent criminal elements from exploiting the state's resources.

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Kogi State is not a safe haven for criminals, and we will never negotiate or dialogue with them.

Ododo highlighted Kogi's strategic importance, noting its borders with 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He asserted that the state's security is directly linked to the safety of Abuja, stating, "Any overflow of insecurity into Kogi will become a problem for Abuja." This underscores the administration's commitment to tackling insecurity head-on.

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Yes, we have those minerals, but they have never been fully tapped or unlocked. We are out to unlock our potential in a way that benefits our people.

The governor also pointed to the establishment of the Confluence University of Science and Technology as a deliberate policy to cultivate a skilled workforce for the mining industry. "We have minerals, but we also need people with the knowledge to develop them," he explained. The youth empowerment program aims to teach beneficiaries how to fish, rather than simply giving them fish, to ensure self-sufficiency and reduce unemployment and insecurity.

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The establishment of the university was a deliberate decision because if you want to produce a product, you must train people who fit into that system. We have minerals, but we also need people with the knowledge to develop them.