By Nawani Aboki
Nasarawa state was created in 1996 and called the home of solid minerals since 1997 by the then Military Administrator of the state Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim. Many people pondered why the choice of this mantra when there were other better names for the young vibrant state. Examples cited included ‘land of agriculture’, ‘beauty of the Benue valley’, ‘land of culture’ amongst others. However, nature or divine influence supported the choice even when no one was sure of any serious mineral resources in the state. It was viewed as a serious mistake but in the euphoria of the new state the name stuck.
Several governments in the state tried to give meaning to the mantra through various pronouncements and institution of government organizations to promote mineral resources development. In addition some governments embarked on geological surveys through consultants to identify the possible mineral resources in the state. The resources were discovered to be in abundance. These include lime stone, coal, tin, columbite, baryite and many species of gem stones. However, none of the governments agreed to invest in this sector with the view developing them into concrete realities for the good of the state.
In 2019 Governor Abdullahi Sule campaigned on the promise to place Nasarawa state on a pedestal as a solid mineral producer in Nigeria. He also insisted that he will develop and use solid minerals as a foundation for the industrial take off of the state. Of course many laughed at him, while others mocked him saying this man is influenced by the ‘Oyibo’ environment he is coming from. However, Governor Sule had his ideas and agenda on what to do for the state.
Four years after, we can confidently say he is the father of solid minerals in Nigeria. No workshop or national meeting is complete without his presence. He is always the guest speaker at all events on solid mineral in the country for his activities and enabling polices for the establishment of solid mineral industries including tax regimes have all gone to attract solid mineral industrialists to the state. Today Nasarawa state is the home of viable industries in the solid mineral sector in Nigeria and indeed in West Africa. The Minister of Solid Mineral and even the President of Nigeria have come to praise and appreciate him for the wonderful work done in the sector
He has not only accelerated development in the solid mineral sector but has also put the state on the Map of oil mineral sector. Today, the state has the highest quantity and quality of crude oil in Northern Nigeria. Nasarawa state is waiting for its period of oil boom that will improve the quality of life of the 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. This is another obvious promise kept.
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.
Dr. Nawani Aboki, is the Special Adviser on Media And Publicity To Executive Governor of Nasarawa State.
