Bauchi State government has introduced new policies to harness the state’s natural resources and promote economic growth.
The goal is to make the state an international mineral trading destination.
The state commissioner for natural resources, Muhammad Maiwada Bello, stated that the policies aim to curb the illegal movement of minerals, enhance marketing, generate revenue, and create employment opportunities.
At a press briefing yesterday in Bauchi, Bello said the state government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources, has empowered the Bauchi Mining Synergy and Exploration Limited (BAMSEL) to partner with local producers, purchase their products, and liaise with major marketers for international export.
The commissioner stated that the initiative aligns with the administration’s trust policy to promote economic growth and development in the state.
He highlighted the ministry’s achievements, including advancing plans to build an oil and gas free trade zone along Kolmani Road in Alkaleri local government area. Additionally, the State Executive Council has approved the transfer of revenue heads relevant to the ministry, including haulage fees, registration of mineral businesses, and surface rent.
According to the commissioner, other ministry achievements included a partnership with Minsheng Group of Shandong Province, China, to establish a tin/columbite factory in Toro LGA worth over $50 million, a partnership with a cement company to establish a 10 million-tonne cement plant in Gwana, Alkaleri LGA, worth over $500 million, the establishment of Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy, Alkaleri, and the recruitment of over 73 senior and junior workers.
He commended Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammed’s efforts in implementing his developmental projects across the state.
