By William Emmanuel Ukpoju
President Bola Tinubu has pledged to ensure that companies involved in mineral exploration prioritize the health and safety of Nigerians and host communities. He made this commitment while receiving a presentation from Course 32 participants of the National Defence College (NDC) on Thursday.
“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,” President Tinubu said.
He also emphasized the need to address illegal mining activities, stating, “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.”
Regarding the health implications of exploration activities, President Tinubu expressed concern, saying, “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.”
The President assured the delegation that his administration would ensure the completion of the NDC headquarters in Abuja. Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the NDC, appealed for assistance in completing the college’s permanent site, which has been delayed since 2010.
The NDC Course 32 participants, comprising 111 individuals from various Nigerian institutions and 19 international participants, undertook an 11-month study on the mining industry’s potential to contribute to national security and development.