By Nawani Aboki PhD
Since its creation in 1996, Nasarawa State has been dubbed the “Home of Solid Minerals,” a moniker bestowed by the then Military Administrator, Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim, in 1997. Initially met with skepticism amidst suggestions of alternative identities like ‘Land of Agriculture,’ ‘Beauty of the Benue Valley,’ or ‘Land of Culture,’ this title persisted despite uncertainty regarding the state’s mineral resources.
Over the years, successive administrations in Nasarawa State made efforts to substantiate this title through governmental declarations and the establishment of agencies aimed at promoting mineral resource development. Geological surveys conducted by consultants revealed a wealth of resources including limestone, coal, tin, columbite, baryte, and various gemstones. However, none of these administrations committed significant investments to develop these resources into tangible benefits for the state.
In 2019, Governor Abdullahi Sule campaigned on a pledge to elevate Nasarawa State into a leading solid mineral producer in Nigeria and to utilize these minerals as a foundation for industrial growth. Initially met with skepticism and mockery, Governor Sule remained resolute in his vision.
Four years later, Governor Sule has indisputably earned the title of a pioneer in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. His presence is now indispensable at workshops and national forums on solid minerals, where he often serves as a keynote speaker. His proactive policies, including favorable tax regimes, have successfully attracted solid mineral industrialists to the state. The commendation of the President and the Minister of solid minerals to Governor Sule for his energies in the sector.. Today, Nasarawa State boasts a burgeoning solid minerals industry, not only in Nigeria but also in West Africa, with viable industrial enterprises.
Governor Sule’s impact extends beyond solid minerals; he has also positioned Nasarawa State prominently in the oil sector, boasting the highest quantity and quality of crude oil in Northern Nigeria. As the state awaits its potential oil boom, Governor Sule’s foresight and leadership are paving the way for a prosperous future that will enhance the lives of its people. It takes greatness in a person to develop what will be ripe in the future for others to benefit. It is the story of the dates planting. There is no doubt that Governor Sule is the divine choice to implement the mantra of the home of solid minerals after 27years of the state existence.
In conclusion, Governor Sule’s stewardship exemplifies visionary leadership and effective governance. His achievements underscore Nasarawa State’s rightful claim as the “Home of Solid Minerals” after 27 years of existence. This is not just a promise fulfilled, but a testament to his commitment to transforming Nasarawa State into a beacon of economic potential and prosperity.
Over the years, successive administrations in Nasarawa State made efforts to substantiate this title through governmental declarations and the establishment of agencies aimed at promoting mineral resource development. Geological surveys conducted by consultants revealed a wealth of resources including limestone, coal, tin, columbite, baryte, and various gemstones. However, none of these administrations committed significant investments to develop these resources into tangible benefits for the state.
In 2019, Governor Abdullahi Sule campaigned on a pledge to elevate Nasarawa State into a leading solid mineral producer in Nigeria and to utilize these minerals as a foundation for industrial growth. Initially met with skepticism and mockery, Governor Sule remained resolute in his vision.
Four years later, Governor Sule has indisputably earned the title of a pioneer in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. His presence is now indispensable at workshops and national forums on solid minerals, where he often serves as a keynote speaker. His proactive policies, including favorable tax regimes, have successfully attracted solid mineral industrialists to the state. The commendation of the President and the Minister of solid minerals to Governor Sule for his energies in the sector.. Today, Nasarawa State boasts a burgeoning solid minerals industry, not only in Nigeria but also in West Africa, with viable industrial enterprises.
Governor Sule’s impact extends beyond solid minerals; he has also positioned Nasarawa State prominently in the oil sector, boasting the highest quantity and quality of crude oil in Northern Nigeria. As the state awaits its potential oil boom, Governor Sule’s foresight and leadership are paving the way for a prosperous future that will enhance the lives of its people. It takes greatness in a person to develop what will be ripe in the future for others to benefit. It is the story of the dates planting. There is no doubt that Governor Sule is the divine choice to implement the mantra of the home of solid minerals after 27years of the state existence.
In conclusion, Governor Sule’s stewardship exemplifies visionary leadership and effective governance. His achievements underscore Nasarawa State’s rightful claim as the “Home of Solid Minerals” after 27 years of existence. This is not just a promise fulfilled, but a testament to his commitment to transforming Nasarawa State into a beacon of economic potential and prosperity.
Nawani Aboki is the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State