President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that his administration will ensure that companies involved in mineral exploration prioritize the health and safety of Nigerians and the host communities. This commitment 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.
President Tinubu, responding to the presentation by Colonel Olajide Bello on behalf of the delegation, highlighted the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy through responsible mining practices. He stressed the need for stringent measures to curb illegal mining activities and safeguard the well-being of communities near mining sites.
“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,” President Tinubu stated. “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.”
The President further assured the delegation that the completion of the NDC headquarters in Abuja is a priority for his administration. Addressing concerns raised during the interactive session, he expressed his administration’s commitment to addressing the health implications of mining activities. “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,” Tinubu affirmed.
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the NDC, commended the President’s ongoing support for the institution, which has seen significant infrastructural upgrades. He, however, appealed for assistance in completing the college’s permanent site in Abuja, a project that has been pending since 2010.
The NDC, established in 1992 as the National War College, has graduated 2,871 participants, including international participants from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. The college is recognized as the ECOWAS training Centre of Excellence for Peace Support Operations at the strategic level.
This reaffirmation of commitment to responsible mineral exploration and the completion of national projects reflects President Tinubu’s broader vision of creating a stable and diversified economic environment for Nigeria.
