In celebration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s second anniversary in office, the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, in partnership with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Solid Mineral Development and Ebonyi State University (EBSU), convened a landmark conference titled “Solid Mineral Resources: The Government and the People, 2023–2025.” held on May 23 at the Ebonyi State University campus, the event underscored the cultural and economic value of Ebonyi’s mineral wealth and set a new tone for research, collaboration, and inclusive growth.

Representing the Executive Governor, Rt. Hon. Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Business Development, Chief Oguzor Offia-Nwali, delivered a keynote that highlighted the administration’s vision of repositioning the solid minerals sector as a cornerstone of industrialization, rural development, and job creation.

The Governor lauded the Ministry, Ebonyi State University, and the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation for fostering a multi-stakeholder partnership focused on responsible mining, data-driven policy, and community development.

Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Chidi Onyia, described the conference as the first of its kind in the state and praised the Governor’s “People’s Charter of Needs” agenda. He cited progress including the resolution of over 100 disputes between host communities and mining operators, the acquisition of critical mineral licenses, and increased enforcement against illegal mining.

Professor Ike-Elechi Ogba, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) at EBSU, reaffirmed the university’s role as a knowledge hub, expressing readiness to partner with the government to drive ethical research, policy support, and workforce development in the sector.

Delivering an address on behalf of the Ike-Elechi Ogba Foundation, CEO Mrs. Chioma Ike-Elechi Ogba emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to intertwining education, entrepreneurship, and cultural identity with sustainable development.

“This initiative reflects our belief that Ebonyi’s mineral resources are not just economic assets, but a key part of our cultural heritage,” she stated.

A joint communiqué was presented at the close of the event, prepared by a committee of stakeholders from the Ministry, EBSU, the Foundation, and other professionals in the state. It outlined key recommendations for strengthening environmental protections, promoting local content, and fostering public-private-community partnerships.

As governor Nwifuru marks two years in office, this collaborative initiative reflects a shared vision: to turn Ebonyi’s mineral heritage into a catalyst for inclusive economic transformation and sustainable prosperity.