In a joint effort to bolster security in the nation’s mining sector, the Ministry of Defence is partnering with the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
The objective is to enhance the sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and augment Government revenue. During a courtesy visit, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle, affirmed their commitment to this collaboration.
Badaru emphasised the significance of securing both farming and mining areas, underscoring their critical roles in earning essential foreign currency and revitalizing the national economy.
In response to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development’s proposal to establish a mining police force, Minister Badaru commended the initiative. He assured that the military would actively support the concept by initially securing the territories.
He said, “We have to clear the territory as military to ensure safety. When the Mining Police come, they can take it up from there and continue to provide security in those mining areas”.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, reiterated the primary objective of securing the mineral sector. He emphasized the need for a secure operating environment, addressing both local and foreign investors.
Dr. Alake highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and various inter-military agencies to reinforce the security architecture in place.
This collaboration underscores the commitment to creating a conducive and secure atmosphere for mining operations, aiming to optimise the benefits derived from the nation’s mineral resources.
