ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT RATIFIES NKUME AJABA MINING PACT, EMPHASIZES LEGALITY, INCLUSIVENESS AND PUBLIC ORDER 

The Abia State Government has formally ratified the mining agreement between Amanyanwu Community in Imobi Autonomous Community, Achara Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, and Limel International Company Nigeria Limited, thereby concluding deliberations concerning the Nkume Ajaba mining site.

The Deputy Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, who serves as the Chairman of the Abia State Boundary Committee, announced the approval at the final resolution meeting held yesterday at the Conference Room of the Office of the Deputy Governor in Umuahia.

Deputy Governor Emetu noted that the decision was reached after exhaustive consultations, careful review of historical records, scrutiny of documentary evidence, technical evaluations, and independent findings relating to ownership claims and contractual obligations at the Nkume Ajaba site.

He stated that Amanyanwu Community reaffirmed its long-standing ownership position and prior agreements, retaining its right of engagement and negotiation. While noting that other component communities share a common autonomous identity, Engr. Emetu stressed that transparency, inclusivity, and strict adherence to due process remain paramount in addressing communal matters.

The Deputy Governor further disclosed that the Federal Government had previously granted a five-year mining lease to Limel International Company Nigeria Limited. He called on all stakeholders to comply fully with the terms of the final resolution and warned that the state government would not condone violence, obstruction, intimidation, or any action capable of disrupting public peace.

In his contribution, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Joel Ogbonna, affirmed that the approval takes immediate effect and is binding on all concerned parties. He charged the company to operate strictly within the framework of the duly executed communal agreement with Amanyanwu Community and in compliance with all relevant laws and government directives, noting that any infraction would attract appropriate sanctions.

Speaking on behalf of the company, the Director, Mr. Nomeh Joseph, expressed appreciation to the state government for its decisive leadership. He assured that the company would conduct its operations responsibly, facilitate skill acquisition, promote local development, and ensure measurable benefits to the host community.

The Acting Surveyor General of the State, Surv. Ikechukwu Nwankwo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa; Director Legal Services, Ministry of Justice, Bar. Emenike Okoro; Representatives of the Department of State Services, and the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command; Members of the State Boundary Committee; the Traditional Ruler of Amanyanwu Community, Eze Simeon C. Chukwuma; women leaders; youth representatives, and other stakeholders were present at the meeting.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
February 18, 2026.