Taraba Must Turn Mineral Wealth Into Investments — Alake

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has challenged Taraba State to move beyond identifying mineral deposits and develop them into bankable investment opportunities capable of creating jobs, industries and sustainable revenue.

Dr. Alake, who spoke at the Solid Minerals Investment Roundtable 2026 in Jalingo, said mineral resources beneath the ground would remain mere potential until supported by credible geological data, investment, infrastructure, security and value addition.

The minister said the federal government was ready to support the state’s efforts to attract serious investors into its mining sector, more so that Taraba had the potential to become a major mining investment destination, if it could provide the right conditions for investors.

“A mineral deposit beneath the ground is only a promise. It becomes wealth when knowledge defines it, when investment develops it, when infrastructure connects it, when industry adds value to it, and when communities can point to tangible improvements in their lives because it was responsibly developed,” Alake said.

He commended Governor Agbu Kefas for convening the investment roundtable, describing the initiative as consistent with the Federal Government’s drive to mobilise private capital, deepen industrial capacity and create new sources of employment and economic growth.

According to him, investors are no longer interested in mere claims of mineral abundance, but require reliable geological information, secure mineral titles, transparent regulation, adequate infrastructure, peaceful host communities and clear prospects for returns on investment.