Askari Metals Limited has confirmed the successful completion of legal due diligence for its acquisition of the Nejo Gold and Copper Project in Central-Western Ethiopia. An internationally recognized law firm reviewed the three Exploration Licences covering the approximately 1,174km² brownfields asset located in the mineral-rich Arabian-Nubian Shield. The firm’s opinion affirms that the licences, valid until 23 March 2028, are in good standing and free from overlapping claims or cancellation risks under Ethiopian law. The company has reinforced its commitment to solid government engagement by holding multiple meetings with officials from the Oromia Regional Government and the Federal Mining Ministry. These discussions have not only secured the necessary support for exploration and development but have also dismissed previous unsubstantiated media reports regarding potential licence issues. Askari Metals is set to assume operator rights over the Nejo Project, with plans to immediately deploy a work program including sampling, trenching, drilling, and an airborne geophysical survey. The activities will be conducted following the rainy season after obtaining the required government permits for importing exploration equipment. The strategic acquisition of the Nejo Project significantly expands Askari Metals’ African portfolio and provides district-scale tenure in a region that hosts several major gold deposits, such as the 1.7Moz Tulu Kapi and the 3.4Moz Kurmuk mines. The exploration strategy is designed to target high-grade shallow gold and copper mineralisation, building on historical work and enhanced by advanced exploration technologies. Under a transaction structure that could benefit shareholders of Xingxu Mining, the parent of which is Shining Star International Group, the collaboration may also open up additional funding opportunities as the project progresses towards a potential JORC-compliant resource. Market sentiment around the development of this project has a mixed complexion. On the bullish side, strong legal validation, encouraging government support, and the notable geological setup of the Arabian-Nubian Shield provide a favorable outlook for resource expansion and swift exploration progress. Additionally, the proactive approach to ESG and local stakeholder engagement underscores a long-term commitment that may enhance investor confidence. Conversely, some caution is warranted as the immediate execution of the work program remains contingent on obtaining essential permits, and previous misleading media reports have stirred concerns among investors. Furthermore, the final transaction still awaits shareholder approval, which adds an element of uncertainty in the short term.