Tinubu orders crack down on illegal miners

He issued this directive 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) yesterday in Abuja.

Additionally, he emphasized that his administration will ensure that companies involved in mineral exploration prioritize the health and safety of Nigerians and the communities where they operate.

President Tinubu urged the Course 32 participants to utilize their findings from their 11-month study on the mining industry’s potential to aid in national security and development.

In response to the presentation made by Colonel Olajide Bello on behalf of the delegation, President Tinubu lauded their efforts and reiterated the necessity of diversifying Nigeria’s economy.

“I have carefully listened to your presentation. Beyond your expertise in war and security, it is evident that there is significant intellectual depth in the work done for the benefit of our nation, and I want to express my gratitude to all of you.

“I recognize the critical need for economic diversification, which we are actively pursuing. Your input will also contribute to a better understanding of these issues.

“We are facing challenges from scavengers and exploiters throughout the country. We must address this issue promptly; you military personnel are more familiar with this than the civilian sector.

“We anticipate that, through your leadership, we will secure more resources necessary for establishing a stable economic environment,” stated the President.

President Tinubu assured the delegation that his administration would ensure the completion of the NDC headquarters in Abuja.

During an interactive session, he addressed the health risks associated with exploration activities, expressing concern for the well-being of residents near mining sites.

“We must proactively focus on this by providing medical centers and other facilities to safeguard the health, lives, and property of Nigerians,” said President Tinubu.

The Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, noted that since its establishment in 1992 as the National War College, the institution has graduated 2,871 participants.

He pointed out that, in addition to participants from 30 African nations, the college has also welcomed individuals from Bangladesh, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Rear Admiral Olotu commended President Tinubu for his support and mentioned that the college has initiated significant infrastructural improvements, enhancing its competitiveness with other defense colleges globally.

However, he urged the President to assist in completing the college’s permanent site in Abuja, as the institution has been operating from temporary facilities in the Central Business District since 2010 due to the site’s incomplete status.

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

The college conducts comprehensive studies on all factors influencing national security and development.

Its research center, known as the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, is also recognized as the ECOWAS Training Centre of Excellence for Peace Support Operations at the strategic level.