Segilola Resources Empowers Osun Youth, Commissions Community Projects to Combat Illegal Mining

Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), operator of Nigeria’s first commercial gold mine and a subsidiary of Thor Explorations Ltd., has taken bold steps toward community development and youth empowerment in Osun State by recognising winners of its 2025 University Competition and unveiling major infrastructure projects in Odo‑Ijesha.

The University Competition, launched earlier in 2025, called on students from tertiary institutions across Osun State to devise practical and innovative strategies to tackle the scourge of illegal mining — a growing issue threatening both the environment and legitimate mining efforts in the region.

Judged independently by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), the competition attracted a wave of outstanding ideas, reaffirming the intellectual power and creativity of Nigerian youth.

Winners Shine with Vision for Sustainable Mining

Three students emerged as the standout winners:

Ibrahim Sulaiman of Adeleke University claimed the first prize of ₦800,000 — ₦500,000 from the official prize fund and an additional ₦300,000 personally presented by Mr. Segun Lawson, CEO of Thor Explorations Ltd.

Beulah Chimaobi Ude from Obafemi Awolowo University took second place with ₦500,000 (₦300,000 official prize + ₦200,000 bonus).

Abisola Faith Adegboyega of Osun State University, Osogbo Campus, won third place and received ₦300,000 (₦200,000 prize + ₦100,000 bonus).

Speaking during the award presentation, Mr. Segun Lawson said:

“This competition is not a token gesture. It reflects our firm belief that young Nigerians are not just the future of the mining industry; they are already shaping its present. The entries were bold, thoughtful, and solution-driven, offering real strategies for tackling illegal mining and promoting responsible, sustainable practices.”

Community Infrastructure Projects Unveiled in Odo‑Ijesha

Following the award ceremony, Segilola Resources commissioned two key infrastructure projects on July 31st, 2025, further anchoring its long-term investment in the Odo‑Ijesha community. These included:

The renovated Community High School — now equipped to offer a more conducive learning environment.

An upgraded block of market stalls — designed to boost local trade with safer, organised, and hygienic facilities for traders.

The projects were implemented in close consultation with community leaders to ensure alignment with grassroots needs and aspirations.

Madhurii Sarkar Amoda, Community Development and Stakeholder Manager at SROL, during the commissioning event, remarked:

“It is always a privilege to work closely with host communities on projects that reflect their true priorities. These are more than just physical structures; they are symbols of progress, inclusion, and our long-term commitment to building with, not just for, the people of Odo‑Ijesha.”

Building for the Future of Osun

Through initiatives like the University Competition and strategic infrastructure investments, Segilola Resources Operating Limited continues to lead by example in Nigeria’s mining industry. The company’s approach emphasizes inclusive development, environmental responsibility, transparency, and shared prosperity — principles critical to reshaping the narrative around resource extraction in the country.

By empowering students and uplifting communities, Segilola is not only investing in the present but laying a foundation for a more sustainable and equitable future in Osun State and beyond.