The Benue State Government has confirmed the discovery of significant gold and aluminium deposits across key parts of the state, a development officials say could transform its economy and strengthen its role in Nigeria’s growing solid minerals sector.
A top government official disclosed on Thursday that shortly after Governor Hyacinth Alia assumed office in 2023, his administration established a task force on illegal mining activities. “After the committee submitted its report, the State Government imposed a ban on all mining operations, citing insecurity that was then affecting several communities. The ban has remained in effect to date,” the official said.
Earlier reports by The Guardian quoted the state’s Director of Solid Minerals, Mr. Anselm Nege, who described the discovery as a major milestone in Benue’s solid minerals development agenda and a potential game changer for its revenue base.
“On gold and other mineral discoveries, there have been confirmed reports of gold deposits in Kwande Local Government Area and aluminium deposits along riverine areas of the state,” Nege said. “Mining activities in these areas are ongoing, but many remain unorganised and, in some cases, illegal. We are monitoring these activities to ensure proper regulation and to mitigate economic and environmental risks.”
He described the discoveries as “positive indicators of Benue’s growing mineral potential,” adding that they could boost the state’s standing in Nigeria’s solid minerals landscape and attract long term investments.
Also speaking, the Chief Risk Officer of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Mr. Andrew Simon Mbaiorga, said the findings could evolve into profitable ventures if properly managed.
“If this is done properly, in a constructive way, and with the right investors on the ground, this can become a strong, sustainable initiative and eventually lead to formal commercial rights and recognition,” Mbaiorga stated.
He explained that the state government had already set up a regulatory board to coordinate mining operations, particularly among indigenous miners, to attract credible investors and ensure responsible resource exploitation.
“Our goal is to encourage investors in this area to collaborate with us, to form partnerships, establish industries, and develop the sector,” he said. “These industries will not only generate internally generated revenue through the sale of gold, but they will also create jobs and improve livelihoods in these communities and surrounding areas.”
Mbaiorga further urged the government to maintain strict oversight and ensure all mining activities adhere to global best practices, noting that sustainable exploration would help balance economic growth with environmental protection.
