By Tobias Lengnan Dapam
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji—Ojo, has said that the Tinubu led federal government will provide effective leadership for effective of critical national assets.
The minister stated this on Friday during the passing-out-parade of
350 2nd batch of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshal.
He said, “As a government, we are not just interested in solving today’s problem, but tomorrow’s problem also. We will build a strong system that will be self sustaining and will show excellence.
“We will partner with the ministry of power to ensure adequate protection of critical assets of government.
“When I come next time, I would like to see Power Rangers that will protect power infrastructure across the country.
“You need to sectorize your responsibilities and protect all sectors. As an agency, I urge you to keep your word by protecting all critical national assets of government.
“I assure you that the current government will provide everything you need to to do your work effectively”
On his part, the Commandant General of the corps, Ahmed Audi said the training underscores not only the corps’ preparedness and determination in safeguarding the Mining Sector which is a goldmine capable of turning around the economy of this great country but also its commitment to Federal Government’s efforts to diversify the economy to enhance economic growth and development.
“I am confident that today’s graduands have been adequately equipped physically, mentally, and psychologically for the task ahead.
“There is no gain saying the fact that Nigeria is blessed with abundance of mineral resources which if properly tapped and managed, could significantly boost Nigeria’s revenue base which represents another giant stride towards stabilizing the economy.
“Against this backdrop, the need to put in place adequate security measures towards strengthening security and safeguarding our collective patrimony cannot be overemphasized.
It is no longer news that the nation’s security especially the Mining Sector is being threatened by the nefarious activities of illegal miners, bandits, kidnappers, terrorists, etc. a situation that has led to a major setback in the development of the country’s otherwise very lucrative mining sector which is very critical to the Country’s socio-economic development.
“Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Guests, you will agree with me that one of the major challenges of mining sector is illegal mining being undertaken by mostly artisans who operate without state permission. The preponderance of artisanal and illegal mining operations has not only led to shortchanging the Government but has equally led to loss of revenue, environmental pollution or degradation, health hazards etc. The growth and development of the Mining Industry will create job opportunities, reduce unemployment, reduce crime rate and enhance revenue generation to Government.
“The aforementioned therefore underscores the need to emplace adequate security measures. This intensive training programme which is continuous, therefore becomes absolutely necessary to add value and bite to the fight against criminality especially illegal mining. The training is meant to further strengthen the capacity and efficiency of the Corps operatives saddled with the responsibility of safeguarding this all-important sector of the economy.
“In addition, there is need for a robust policy guideline backed by legislation, for a robust regulatory measures to combat and criminalize illegal mining. This measure will no doubt attract and encourage genuine investors (both indigenous and foreign) to the Mining Industry.”
What did the Minister mean by “sectorize your responsibilities” in relation to NSCDC’s work?