By joshua 
GEGU’S GIFT TO KOGI: TRANSFORMING SOLID MINERALS WITH HEART AND ACTION
By Abu Micheal
Meet Engr. Bashiru Gegu, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources in Kogi State, who is rewriting the rules of public service.
With a people-first approach, he’s turning the tide on mismanaged resources and exclusionary practices.
Gegu’s track record speaks for itself: auditing projects, cancelling dud contracts, and opening up opportunities for local entrepreneurs and cooperatives.
“We are here to ensure every mineral extracted benefits the community that hosts it,” he declared at a town hall meeting.
Through his people centric policies, Youth and Women Take Centre Stage.
– Over 1,200 young people employed in skilled roles within eight months
– ₦150-million fund supports women’s groups in processing minerals
– 5% of royalties go towards community development
Gegu’s leadership style is refreshingly transparent. He holds weekly “visit to mining locations”, addressing concerns and taking swift action.
His empathy shines through in personal gestures, like paying hospital bills for injured miners and sponsoring orphans’ education.
For Kogi State, it is a New Dawn for APC.
Gegu has built a merit-based party structure, boosting grassroots participation by 30%. His approach is a breath of fresh air in a region where mineral wealth often sparks conflict.
Engr. Bashiru Gegu’s blend of governance, engagement, and empathy offers a model for public service that prioritizes people over patronage.
His inclusive approach might just be the key to lasting peace and prosperity in Kogi State.