06/11/2025
Governor Radda Deepens Katsina’s Solid Minerals Drive at Nigerian-German Bi-National Meeting in Berlin
-----As Deputy Governor Jobe Showcases Katsina’s Vast Solid Mineral Potentials at the Meeting
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to unlocking the state’s vast solid mineral resources and transforming them into engines of growth and sustainable development.
Represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Faruk Jobe, Governor Radda made this known yesterday while delivering remarks at the Nigerian-German Bi-National Meeting held in Berlin, Germany.
The high-level meeting brought together senior government officials and industry leaders from both countries to explore new investment opportunities in Nigeria’s solid minerals and energy sectors.
The Governor commended Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar; and Germany’s Minister of Economy, Johann Wadephul, MdB, for organizing the event and for fostering stronger bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Germany.
Governor Radda described the meeting as a timely platform to deepen collaboration, noting that Germany’s global expertise in mining technology and industrial innovation offers Katsina a unique opportunity for partnership and sustainable economic growth.
He revealed that Katsina State is already working with Geoscan GmbH, a reputable German company conducting advanced geological surveys across the state. The project, he explained, will produce a detailed geological report that will boost investor confidence and guide future exploration efforts.
Highlighting Katsina’s natural endowments, the Governor noted that the state hosts one of Africa’s largest deposits of pharmaceutical-grade kaolin, suitable for global drug production. To harness this potential, the state government has established a kaolin processing plant dedicated to pharmaceutical use.
Governor Radda also mentioned other mineral resources found in Katsina, including gold, copper, iron ore, tin, lithium, barite, limonite, and monoxide. He described these as valuable assets for industrialization, value addition, and large-scale job creation.
To attract credible investors, the Governor said his administration has built a transparent and investor-friendly regulatory framework anchored on modern mining policies. A key part of this reform is the creation of the Katsina State Exploration and Mining Company (KEMCO), which serves as a Special Purpose Vehicle to drive mineral development in the state.
Through KEMCO, the state government can acquire exploration and mining licenses, enter joint ventures and public-private partnerships, and participate fully across the entire value chain—from exploration to processing and export.
Governor Radda emphasized that KEMCO offers investors a stable, transparent, and well-structured environment aligned with global best practices and Nigeria’s national mining laws.
He also disclosed that Katsina is among the few states in Nigeria that have developed a comprehensive Policy and Strategic Roadmap for the Sustainable Development of Solid Minerals. This policy guides responsible mining, environmental protection, and economic diversification.
“The implementation of our solid minerals policy is already underway, and we welcome all partners, investors, and stakeholders to join us in building a prosperous and sustainable future for Katsina,” he said.
Governor Radda reiterated Katsina’s readiness to collaborate with German mining experts to introduce advanced technologies, innovative practices, and sustainable mining models that ensure profitability while protecting the environment.
He extended an open invitation to German and international investors to explore the numerous business opportunities available in Katsina, assuring them of a government that is open, supportive, and responsive to investors’ needs.
“Katsina State is ready for business. I encourage investors to engage with KEMCO, review our solid minerals policy, and identify key areas where we can collaborate for mutual growth,” the Governor stated.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the Nigerian and German ministers, dignitaries, and participants for their commitment to strengthening economic ties. He expressed confidence that this partnership will unlock Katsina’s mineral wealth and contribute to shared prosperity for both nations.
The event was attended by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Alhaji Mukhtar Aliyu Saulawa; Chairman, Board of Directors, Katsina State Exploration and Mining Company (KEMCO), Alhaji Umar Dangi Abbas; the Managing Director of KEMCO, Bello Doro; and other members of the management team.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Katsina State
5th November, 2025