‘I’ll ensure companies engaged in mineral exploration’ – Tinubu 

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President Bola Tinubu has pledged that his administration will ensure that companies engaged in mineral exploration prioritize the health and safety of Nigerians and their host communities.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale revealed that the President made this commitment while receiving 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.

President Tinubu also directed security agencies to intensify efforts to crack down on illegal mining activities across the country.

He challenged the Course 32 participants to conduct comprehensive research on critical national issues, particularly focusing on the mining industry’s potential to contribute to national security and development during their 11-month study.

In response to the presentation delivered by Colonel Olajide Bello on behalf of the delegation, President Tinubu commended their work and emphasized the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy.

“I listened carefully to your presentation. Beyond your knowledge of war and security, I could see the intellectual depth of your work aimed at helping the nation. I must express my gratitude to all of you. The need for economic diversification is crucial, and we have been vigorously pursuing this. Your involvement will further enhance our understanding of these issues.

“We face challenges from scavengers and exploiters across the country. We must address this urgently, and you, as military officers, are better equipped to handle this than civil society. We expect your leadership to help secure the resources needed to ensure a stable economic environment,” the President stated.

President Tinubu further assured the delegation that his administration is committed to completing the NDC headquarters in Abuja.

During an interactive session, the President also expressed concern over the health implications of mining activities, particularly for those living near mining areas.

“We must address these concerns from the outset by providing medical centres and other facilities that protect the lives, property, and health of Nigerians,” President Tinubu said.

Meanwhile, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the NDC, highlighted that the institution, established in 1992 as the National War College, has graduated 2,871 participants since its inception.

He noted that in addition to participants from 30 African countries, the college has hosted participants from Bangladesh, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Rear Admiral Olotu acknowledged the President’s support, which has enabled the college to embark on unprecedented infrastructural upgrades, making it competitive with any other defence college worldwide.

However, he appealed to President Tinubu for assistance in completing the college’s permanent site in Abuja, pointing out that the institution currently operates from a temporary facility in the Central Business District due to the non-completion of its permanent site since 2010.

The 111 participants of NDC Course 32 were drawn from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as 19 international participants from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.

The college conducts in-depth studies on all factors affecting national security and development. Its research centre, the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, is also designated as the ECOWAS Training Centre of Excellence for Peace Support Operations at the strategic level.