President Tinubu Vows To Prioritize Nigerians’ Safety In Mineral Exploration Efforts

President Bola Tinubu has vowed that his administration will make sure companies involved in mineral exploration also focus on the health and safety of Nigerians.

The president's comments came while receiving a presentation titled, "Harnessing the Mining Industry for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2035" from Course 32 participants of the National Defense College (NDC) in Abuja on Thursday.

Tinubu instructed security agencies to increase efforts against illegal mining in the country. The Course 32 participants had spent 11 months researching national issues and their findings highlighted the mining industry's potential to aid national security and development, as per the official State House website.

"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," he said.

"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. We have challenges of scavengers and exploiters around the country."

Tinubu emphasized the need to address these issues quickly, noting that military officers understand these problems better than civilians and expect their leadership to help secure the resources needed for a stable economy.

He also assured the delegation that his administration was committed to completing the NDC headquarters in Abuja. "We must pay attention to that at the outset by providing medical centers and other facilities that will protect the lives, property and health of Nigerians," he added.

Commandant of the NDC Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu said that since its establishment in 1992 as the National War College, the institution has graduated 2,871 participants. He mentioned that the college has hosted participants from 30 African countries, apart from Bangladesh, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Nepal and Pakistan.

Rear Admiral Olotu also noted that due to the president's support, the college has undergone significant upgrades, making it comparable to top defense colleges worldwide.

The rear admiral requested Tinubu for help in finishing the college's permanent site in Abuja. He explained that the college has been operating from a temporary facility in the Central Business District because the permanent site has not been completed since 2010.