‘Nib That In The Bud’ – Tinubu Issues Directive To Security Forces Over Illegal Mining In Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed security agencies to enhance their efforts in combating illegal mining activities in Nigeria.

Naija News reports that Tinubu issued this directive during his reception of a presentation entitled ‘Harnessing the Mining Industry for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2035,’ delivered by Course 32 participants from the National Defence College (NDC) on Thursday in Abuja.

The number one citizen emphasized that his administration will ensure that companies involved in mineral exploration prioritize the health and safety of both Nigerians and the communities in which they operate.

President Tinubu urged the Course 32 participants to leverage their findings from their 11-month study, which focused on the mining sector’s potential, to aid in enhancing national security and development.

In response to the presentation made by Colonel Olajide Bello on behalf of the group, Tinubu praised their efforts and reaffirmed the necessity of diversifying Nigeria’s economy.

The President said: ‘‘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.”

President Tinubu guaranteed the delegation that his administration would prioritize the finalization of the NDC headquarters in Abuja.

During an interactive session focused on the health impacts of exploration activities, the president voiced his concern regarding the welfare of individuals residing in proximity to mining sites.

‘‘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.

In his address, the Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, highlighted that the institution, originally founded in 1992 as the National War College, has successfully graduated a total of 2,871 participants since its establishment.

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

Rear Admiral Olotu emphasized that thanks to the President’s generosity, the college has initiated significant infrastructural enhancements, positioning it to compete effectively with any defence college globally.

Nevertheless, he urged President Tinubu to support the completion of the college’s permanent site in Abuja, pointing out that the institution is currently operating from a temporary location in the Central Business District due to the ongoing delays in finalizing its permanent site since 2010.

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

The college conducts comprehensive research on all elements influencing national security and development.

Additionally, the college’s research centre, known as the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies, has been designated as the ECOWAS Training Centre of Excellence for Peace Support Operations at the strategic level.