By Adaobi Nsofor
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited (ASSMDCL), Prof.Charles O. Ofoegbu has described the mineral resources of the state as gateway to industrialization and a huge source of revenue for the state government.
Prof. Ofoegbu stated this during an ABS phone in programme “Ask the Commissioner”, which has the Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor as the Host.
Prof. Ofoegbu noted that ASSMDCL was established as a means of achieving and actualizing the Solution agenda as it concerns the mineral resources of the state. He noted that the idea is not just to mine, but rather seeks to develop the resources with a view of turning Anambra into an industrial hub.
While listing the mineral resources in the state to include; Kaolin, Bentonite, Gravel pack, Lignite etc, Prof Ofoegbu emphasised that the vision is to exploit the mineral resources in the state, beneficiate them, improve their quality and based on that, invite investors that will capitalise on that to build industries.
On Economic transformation, Prof.Ofoegbu mentioned that these mineral resources drive the economic transformation of the state. According to him, this is achieved by establishing a Mining Coperative that will take care of the miners to ensure they mine in a sustainable manner, and also pay their taxes to the federal government from which the state gets it’s 13% derivation. He noted that these steps will help reduce unemployment, boost local production, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
The ASSMDCL boss also hinted about Lignite deposits which can be used to generate power. He said that it stretches from Onitsha through Oraifite, Ozubulu, Ukpor, Nnewi and down to Umunze.
“All these minerals have been enumerated, and we have selected those that we consider of industrial value to the state,” Prof.Ofoegbu added.
- Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
