President Bola Tinubu says his administration will ensure that companies engaged in mineral exploration put into cognisance, the health and safety of the host communities.
This statement was made during a presentation titled, “Harnessing the Mining Industry for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2035,” delivered by Course 32 participants of the National Defence College (NDC) on Thursday in Abuja.
In a press release by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, “the President also directed security agencies to intensify efforts to crack down on illegal miners across the country.”
The Course 32 participants researched national issues, focusing on the industry’s potential for mineral exploration, national security and development.
“Responding to the presentation delivered by Colonel Olajide Bello on behalf of the delegation, President Tinubu commended their work and reiterated the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy.
“‘I have listened carefully to your presentation on the theme. Aside from your knowledge of war and security, I could see the intellectual depth of the work done to help the nation, and I must say thank you to all of you.
“‘I recognise the need for the diversification of the economy, and we have been pushing hard on this. Your involvement will equally promote a better understanding of the issues.
“‘We have challenges of scavengers and exploiters around the country. We must nip that in the bud, and you military officers understand this better than the civil society.
“‘We expect that through your command, we will have more resources that we need to make sure we have a stable economic environment,’ the President said.
President Tinubu assured the delegation that his administration would ensure the completion of the NDC headquarters in Abuja.
During an interactive session, the President expressed concern about the health implications of exploration activities for those living near mining areas.
“‘We must pay attention to that at the outset by providing medical centres and other facilities that will protect the lives, property and health of Nigerians,’ President Tinubu said.
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the NDC, noted that the institution, established in 1992 as the National War College, has graduated 2,871 participants since its inception.
He mentioned that the college has hosted participants from 30 African countries, as well as from Bangladesh, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Rear Admiral Olotu also highlighted that, through the President’s support, the college has undergone significant infrastructural upgrades, enabling it to compete with other defence colleges worldwide.
However, he appealed to President Tinubu for assistance in completing the college’s permanent site in Abuja, as it currently operates from temporary facilities in the Central Business District due to the non-completion of its permanent site since 2010.
The 111 participants of NDC Course 32 include members from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), along with 19 international participants from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.
The college conducts in-depth studies on all factors affecting national security and development.
