Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL), a subsidiary of Thor Explorations Ltd. and operator of Nigeria’s first large-scale commercial gold mine, has handed over nine commercial minibuses under the second phase of its Youth Empowerment Transport Scheme (YETS). Additionally, the company provided targeted business support to beneficiaries from previous editions of its Youth Empowerment Programme across its host communities in Osun State.
Phase Two of Transport Empowerment Scheme
The second phase builds on the success of the maiden edition, reinforcing SROL’s commitment to expanding access to sustainable income-generating opportunities for members of its host communities. Under this phase, SROL presented three commercial minibuses each to beneficiaries from Iperindo, Odo-Ijesha, and Imogbara. The vehicles will enable beneficiaries to establish commercial transportation businesses, creating sustainable livelihoods and contributing to economic activity in their communities.
Business Support for Past Beneficiaries
Beyond expanding its transport empowerment initiative, SROL also provided business support to beneficiaries of previous editions of the Youth Empowerment Programme. From Imogbara community, Kayode Temitope, an aluminium fabricator who received equipment under the 2025 Youth Empowerment Programme, was provided with a generator to improve productivity and business operations. From Iperindo community, Akinrotimi Seun Michael, a cobbler who completed both beginner and advanced vocational training under the 2023 programme, received materials and a filing machine to increase production capacity and support business growth.
Company’s Commitment to Sustainable Development
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Sikiru Haruna, an engineer and Mines Manager at SROL, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering host communities through sustainable livelihood initiatives. He said, “At Segilola Resources Operating Limited, we believe lasting community development begins with investing in people. Through our Youth Empowerment Programme, we are equipping members of our host communities with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to build sustainable businesses, improve their livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to the economic development of their communities. Our commitment is to create opportunities that continue to deliver value long after today’s intervention.”
Haruna emphasized that the programme is designed to ensure long-term impact, not just immediate relief. The company targets multiple sectors within the communities, including transportation, craftsmanship, and small-scale enterprises.
Beneficiary Testimonials
Expressing his appreciation, James Adejugbagbe, a beneficiary of the second phase of SROL’s Youth Empowerment Transport Scheme, said, “Receiving this vehicle is a life-changing opportunity for me and my family. It gives me a reliable means of earning a living and the confidence to build a sustainable business. I sincerely appreciate Segilola Resources Operating Limited for investing in our future and creating opportunities that will positively impact our communities. We are committed to making the most of this opportunity and using it to improve our lives and support our families.”
Other beneficiaries echoed similar sentiments, noting that the initiative reduces unemployment and economic dependency in the region.
Community Development Agreement Framework
The Youth Empowerment Programme is implemented under SROL’s Community Development Agreement (CDA). Through the CDA, the company works in partnership with host communities to implement initiatives that promote sustainable livelihoods and inclusive socio-economic development. By investing in enterprise development and livelihood opportunities, SROL continues to strengthen local economies and create lasting impact across its host communities in Osun State.
The CDA framework ensures that community members have a voice in project selection and implementation, fostering ownership and accountability. Since the inception of the programme, SROL has trained dozens of youths in various vocations and provided tangible assets such as sewing machines, welding equipment, and now commercial vehicles.
Economic Impact on Host Communities
Local leaders have praised the initiative for addressing youth unemployment, a persistent challenge in rural areas. The transport scheme alone is expected to generate direct employment for drivers, conductors, and mechanics, while also improving connectivity for residents traveling to markets, schools, and health facilities. The additional business support for artisans is anticipated to increase production capacity and income levels.
SROL operates Nigeria’s first large-scale commercial gold mine located near Iperindo, Osun State. The company has consistently emphasized corporate social responsibility as a core part of its operations, aligning with global best practices in mining and community relations.
