Prioritize health, safety of communities, Tinubu directs mining companies

…Orders crackdown on illegal mining

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has directed companies involved in mineral exploration to prioritize the health and safety of Nigerians and the well-being of host communities.

The President made this commitment on Thursday while receiving a presentation from Course 32 participants of the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja.

The presentation, titled Harnessing the Mining Industry for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2035, highlighted the critical role of the mining sector in bolstering national security and development. This was according to a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity).

In response to the findings, President Tinubu emphasized the need for responsible mining practices that protect citizens and their environments. He also directed security agencies to intensify efforts to crack down on illegal mining operations across the country.

The NDC participants, who spent 11 months researching various national issues, focused their study on the mining industry’s potential to contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification and security.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Olajide Bello delivered the presentation to the President, who praised their work and reiterated the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy through sectors like mining.

“I recognize 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,” the President stated.

“We face challenges from 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 the resources needed to ensure a stable economic environment,” President Tinubu added.

The President assured the delegation that his administration would prioritize the completion of the NDC headquarters in Abuja.

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

“We must address this issue from the outset by providing medical centers and other facilities that will protect the lives, property, and health of Nigerians,” he said.

In his remarks, 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 disclosed 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 highlighted the significant infrastructural upgrades the college has undergone, thanks to the President’s support, which has made the institution competitive with any other defense college in the world. However, he appealed to President Tinubu to assist in completing the college’s permanent site in Abuja, noting 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 undertakes in-depth studies on all factors affecting national security and development. The research center at the college, known as 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.