— Launches Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum to Drive Industrial Growth, Job Creation
By Hussaini Yero, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to unlocking the State’s vast mineral wealth through a comprehensive revitalisation of the mining sector.
Speaking at the launch of the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum on Mining Development held in Damaturu, the state capital, Governor Buni said the initiative is designed to accelerate economic growth, promote industrialisation, and create sustainable employment opportunities for citizens.
“This forum marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to transform Yobe into a hub of mineral-based economic activities,” the governor declared. “Our goal is to ensure that Yobe’s mineral resources are harnessed responsibly and efficiently for the benefit of our people.”
Governor Buni explained that the newly established Yobe Mining Development Company Limited (YMDCL) would serve as a one-stop shop for investors, regulators, and development partners. The company, he said, will streamline processes, attract investors, and ensure transparency in mineral exploration and exploitation.
The governor listed limestone, gypsum, kaolin, granite, quartz, and silica among the key mineral deposits in the state, stressing that proper management of these resources could redefine Yobe’s economic future.
He further outlined the forum’s focus areas, which include mineral mapping, policy alignment, investor engagement, community participation, environmental safeguards, and security compliance, adding that the discussions would serve as a blueprint for long-term sectoral development.
“We urge all participants to engage sincerely, share insights, and collaborate in shaping the economic destiny of Yobe State,” Buni said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, Solid Minerals, and Tourism, Hon. Kaigama Umar, revealed that Yobe State is blessed with no fewer than 26 identified mineral resources, positioning it as one of the most resource-rich states in northern Nigeria.
He announced that five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) would be signed during the forum between the state government and both national and international investors — a step expected to fast-track the commercialization of the mining sector.
“This administration is determined to create a robust and investor-friendly environment for responsible mining activities,” Umar noted. “The MoUs being signed will open doors for technology transfer, infrastructure development, and value chain expansion.”
One of the key investors, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Geoscan Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, pledging the company’s commitment to the terms of the agreement.
Dr. Eichhorn explained that Geoscan Technologies specializes in aerial scanning and geospatial services for the mining industry — including geological mapping, volume calculations, and environmental impact assessments.
“Our approach leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide accurate and reliable data that helps mining companies optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve environmental sustainability,” Eichhorn said.
The Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum, which brought together government officials, investors, traditional leaders, and experts in solid minerals, is expected to chart a new direction for the mining industry in Yobe State — one anchored on innovation, inclusivity, and accountability.
With this initiative, analysts believe Governor Buni is setting the stage for a post-agricultural economic transformation, leveraging natural endowments to diversify the state’s revenue base and boost investor confidence.
As the forum continues, optimism runs high among participants that Yobe’s mineral potential — long untapped — will soon translate into tangible development gains for communities across the state.
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