Nigeria Establishes 11 New Private Universities and Invests in Mining Monitoring
The Federal Executive Council of Nigeria has approved the establishment of 11 new private universities and allocated N2.5 billion for satellite monitoring of mining activities. These efforts aim to enhance higher education and regulate illegal mining operations to protect natural resources. Ministerial insights highlight the significant economic losses from unregulated mining, while also addressing the need for proper regulation amidst state-level challenges.
In a significant step forward, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of 11 new private universities in Nigeria. This initiative aims to enhance the higher education landscape in the country, responding to demand for educational expansion and diversification. President Bola Tinubu led the meeting during which these decisions were made.
In tandem with educational advancements, the FEC allocated N2.5 billion for satellite technology aimed at regulating mining activities throughout Nigeria. Minister for Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, emphasized that this technology will help monitor illegal mining and unregistered sites that endanger the nation’s natural resources.
Mr. Alake further remarked on the substantial economic losses incurred due to unregulated mining, stating, “We’ve lost trillions of naira to illegal exploitation of our solid minerals, and this technology will help prevent further devastation.” This reflects the urgent need for an effective regulatory framework in the mining sector.
Additionally, Alake mentioned challenges posed by certain states unlawfully shutting down mining fields, underscoring that while states own the land, the minerals belong to the Federal Government. This presents ongoing regulatory hurdles regarding mineral resources management in Nigeria.
The newly approved private universities include: New City University in Ayetoro, Ogun State; University of Fortune in Igbotako, Ondo State; Eranova University in Mabushi; Minaret University in Ikirun, Osun State; Abubakar Toyin University in Oke-Agba, Kwara State; Southern Atlantic University in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State; Lens University in Ilemona and Monarch University in Iyesi-Ota, both in Kwara State; Tonnie Iredia University of Communication in Benin City; Isaac Balami University in Lagos; and Kevin Eze University in Mgbowo, Enugu State.
Moreover, the FEC sanctioned N1.9 billion for an insurance policy safeguarding critical government infrastructure, particularly in the aviation sector. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, noted that this policy will ensure the security and operational stability of airports and essential aviation assets.
In conclusion, the recent approvals by the Federal Executive Council represent a pivotal advancement in education and resource management in Nigeria. The establishment of new private universities seeks to broaden educational opportunities, while the investment in satellite technology and regulatory improvements aims to enhance the management of the mining sector. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to fostering growth and security within the nation.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
