A new geological exploration exercise jointly conducted by the Cross River State government and a team of Chinese geologists has revealed extensive deposits of solid minerals across the state, positioning Cross River as an emerging hub in Nigeria’s mining sector.
According to Tribune, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Mr. George Oben-Etchi, who confirmed the development in Calabar on Tuesday, said the exercise uncovered large quantities of metallic and non-metallic minerals in commercial quantities in several parts of the state.
According to him, significant deposits of magnetic iron ore, uranium, manganese, tourmaline, barites, marble, galena, coal, kaolin, sulphite, rutile, limestone, gold, and salt were identified, in addition to previously known reserves of tin, ilmenite, and zinc.
Among the metallic minerals, iron ore deposits estimated at over 100 million tonnes were discovered in Obanliku and Ogoja, while encouraging traces of gold were found in Ikom, Obubra, Ogoja, Obudu, and Obanliku. The Ikom–Mfamosing axis was also confirmed to hold zinc-lead reserves exceeding seven million tonnes.
On the non-metallic side, limestone—believed to be among the purest and largest in Nigeria—was found in several locations, along with marble, kaolin, and massive salt deposits estimated at more than 60 million metric tonnes in Okpoma, Yala Local Government Area.
Other minerals discovered include uranium, rutile, and graphite, which experts say hold strong prospects for industrial and commercial development.
Oben-Etchi described the findings as a major breakthrough in the state’s economic diversification drive, noting that the government has begun creating an enabling environment for investors to participate in responsible exploration and mining.
He added that the discoveries, if properly harnessed, could create thousands of jobs, boost local industries, and increase internally generated revenue for the state.
The commissioner concluded: “Cross River is stepping out of the shadows as a major mineral hub in Nigeria. We are ready to partner with credible investors to ensure that these resources are developed sustainably and for the benefit of our people.”
