The Defence Ministers have promised to beef up security at mining sites in Nigeria. They assured the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development that the military will provide the necessary support to secure the mining areas. This move is aimed at creating a more secure environment for mining operations and boosting Nigeria’s economic growth. The Defence Ministers, Abubakar Badaru and Bello Matawelle, expressed their commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Solid Minerals to achieve this goal. They made these assurances during a visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja.
According to Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the Defence Ministers pledged their full support for the efforts to enhance security in the mining sector. Badaru, a former Governor of Jigawa state, emphasized the importance of securing the mining areas to ensure that the sector remains active. He highlighted the need to provide security for both the farming and mining sectors, stressing that this is crucial for Nigeria’s economic stability. Badaru also underscored the significance of the mining sector in contributing to the country’s economy, stating that it is a key sector for revitalizing Nigeria’s economy alongside the oil industry.
Dr. Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, reiterated the importance of securing the mining sector to attract local and foreign investors. He emphasized the need to create a conducive and secure environment for mining operations to maximize the benefits of Nigeria’s mineral resources. Alake also highlighted the collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and other military agencies to strengthen the security architecture for the mining sector.
As part of the transformation agenda for the solid minerals sector, Alake has proposed the establishment of a Mines Surveillance Task Force and Mines Police. These initiatives are aimed at further enhancing security and ensuring the smooth operation of mining activities across the country.
The Defence Ministers’ visit underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the mining sector and securing mining areas in Nigeria. This initiative is crucial for attracting investments and driving economic growth through the exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources. With the support of the military, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is poised to create a more secure and conducive environment for mining operations, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic development.