TSX-listed Thor Explorations has noted that concrete has been poured at its Segilola mine's processing plant site, while construction and procurement are progressing on schedule and on budget to ensure the first gold pour target is met in the second quarter of 2021.
Norinco International has poured the first concrete for the foundations for the plant at Segilola in Nigeria and the clean-in-place tank foundation pouring is in progress.
The water storage facility has been built to its final height and the spillway construction is progressing. The facility is filling well and is expected to reach full capacity before the end of the year.
Construction at the main camp is continuing, with the main buildings at roof level. Handover of the administration, technical services, dining facilities, clinic and recreational facilities is expected in the fourth quarter of this year.
In terms of camp and main buildings, procurement is 60% complete, with vendors reconfirming delivery times. Long-lead items are scheduled to arrive on site in the fourth quarter of this year and the first quarter of next year.
The company says local employment is a key aspect of its development approach and, during this initial period, more than 360 jobs have been created, with 92% being filled by Nigerian nationals and about 56% being from the local communities.
“The company has a strong and proactive approach to health and safety and, to date, the project completed over 220 000 man hours with no lost-time injuries,” it says.
Thor indicates that it is taking steps and precautions to address the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic responsibly and to limit potential exposure to the rapidly changing situation.
In terms of exploration, both the contracted reverse circulation and diamond rigs have arrived on site and exploration drilling has started in parallel with construction.
Both rigs will be running concurrently and will be targeting the down dip extension of the Segilola deposit and satellite targets identified within the licence.
The first drilling results are expected in mid-September.