The Edo State Commissioner for Mining, Hon. Andrew Ijegbai, has disclosed that the State Government has granted licences to some Chinese firms to commence the exploration of coal deposits as part of its efforts to boost electricity supply across the State.
Hon. Ijegbai submitted that the initiative, which is expected to drive industrial growth, will also see the firms engage in cement production and the manufacturing of ceramic tiles, using locally sourced clay.
The Commissioner stated that the Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has directed the Ministry of Mining to intensify mineral exploration across the State. He expressed optimism that the Mining Sector could generate sufficient revenue to sustain the State in the near future, adding that ongoing feasibility studies would determine such potentials.
