Kogi State Government Partners Malivelihood to Empower Youths with Mining andJewelry Craftsmanship Skills

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

In a strategic move to unlock the economic potential of its mineral resources while investing in
youth development, the Kogi State Government has partnered with Malivelihood Luxury to
implement the Kogi State Youth Mining and Jewelry Craftsmanship Empowerment Programme.

The initiative is designed to equip young people with practical, globally competitive skills in
ethical mining, mineral refinement, jewelry craftsmanship, and participation in the international
luxury value chain.

By emphasizing value addition rather than raw extraction, the programme
aligns with the state’s vision for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and wealth redistribution.

Kogi State is one of Nigeria’s most mineral-rich states, with deposits of gold, iron ore, limestone,
and other valuable resources. However, much of this potential has remained underutilized due
to skills gaps, informal mining practices, and limited local processing capacity. The new
programme seeks to address these challenges by building technical capacity and promoting
environmentally responsible practices.

Implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, the programme combines classroom instruction, hands-on practical training, and mentorship.

Participants will be trained by experienced local professionals and foreign facilitators with extensive industry backgrounds, ensuring alignment with global standards.
Beyond skills acquisition, the programme is expected to boost the state’s economy by supporting formal mining practices, stimulating value-added industries, and attracting foreign direct investment.

Observers note that such initiatives position Kogi State as a forward-looking subnational government focused on long-term economic competitiveness.

For participating youths, the programme offers exposure to global best practices and clear
pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and international market participation.

Top-performing participants are expected to benefit from advanced learning opportunities,
including exposure to world-class mining facilities and jewelry craftsmanship institutes abroad.
Malivelihood Luxury brings nearly two decades of experience in luxury jewelry production,
high-value craftsmanship, and industrial consulting to the partnership.

Through its global
network and industry expertise, the firm is expected to facilitate foreign partnerships, technical
exchange, and new revenue opportunities for the state.

The collaboration reflects a growing shift toward specialized, future-facing empowerment
programmes. By leveraging its natural resources and investing in human capital, Kogi State is
positioning itself as a hub for ethical mining and luxury craftsmanship, with its youths at the
center of that transformation.