By Najeeb Sani
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has assented to the law establishing the Mining Institute, Alkaleri, Bauchi State (MIABAS), in a major push to develop technical manpower and harness the state’s solid mineral resources.
The assent followed the passage of the bill by the Bauchi State House of Assembly, paving the way for the establishment of specialised mining education in the state.
According to a press release issued on Thursday by the Information Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources Development, Fatima Abdulkarim, the governor has also approved the conversion of the Kaura Mineral Processing and Buying Centre, located in Gwaram village, Alkaleri Local Government Area, into the temporary site for the institute’s immediate take-off.
The governor further directed the relocation of the mineral buying centre to Toro Local Government Area to ensure the continuation of its operations.
According to the ministry, the establishment of MIABAS is aimed at strengthening mining education, promoting technical skills acquisition, curbing illegal mining and maximising the economic benefits of the state’s solid mineral resources.
The statement said, “This initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to developing local expertise, equipping young people with practical and industry-relevant skills, and harnessing Bauchi State’s mineral resources for sustainable economic growth.”
Abdulkarim added that the institute was expected to provide specialised training in mining, mineral processing, geology and related disciplines, thereby expanding opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and local participation in the solid minerals value chain.
The ministry noted that the passage of the bill into law demonstrated the administration’s resolve to transform the state’s natural resource potential into tangible opportunities and shared prosperity for its people.