Enugu, August 20, 2025 A mining expert, Ifeanyichukwu Nnamani, has praised Governor Peter Mbah for appointing Engr. Onyinye Okoro as his Special Adviser on Solid Minerals, describing the move as a turning point for the revival of Enugu State’s mining industry.
Nnamani, who is an Australian certified Surface Coal Mining Safety expert and Managing Director of Earth Core Mining and Energy Resources, said Okoro’s wide experience and strong professional background will help reactivate the state’s long neglected mineral resources and boost economic growth.
He recalled Enugu’s mining history, noting that coal was first discovered in 1909 and later became a key driver of development after commercial mining began in 1915. Apart from coal, the state also has deposits of limestone, iron ore, gypsum, clay, shale, and sandstone.
According to Nnamani, past governments failed to revive the sector, but Governor Mbah’s roadmap especially the appointment of Engr. Okoro shows a strong commitment to unlocking the industry’s potential. He described Okoro as a “young and intelligent professional” with over 20 years of industry experience, saying the choice reflects Mbah’s strategy of involving technocrats in governance.
He added that Enugu’s high quality coal could significantly support Nigeria’s power supply, while the administration’s proactive regulation is helping to stop illegal mining, increase government revenue, and create jobs for residents.
Nnamani also stressed the importance of adopting global best practices in safety, sustainability, and community engagement, noting that Enugu is now laying the foundation for a responsible and competitive mining sector that can attract investment.
“With professionals like Engr. Okoro, Governor Mbah’s administration is building Enugu into a true mining powerhouse in Nigeria,” Nnamani said.
