The Nigerian Federal Executive Council has approved 11 new private universities and allocated N2.5 billion for satellite monitoring of mining activities. Minister Dele Alake highlighted that this technology will combat illegal mining, claiming significant financial losses have occurred due to such practices. Additional funds have been designated for protecting aviation infrastructure, signaling the government’s commitment to education and resource management.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) in Nigeria has officially approved the establishment of 11 new private universities, marking a significant advancement in the country’s higher education sector. This initiative aims to provide greater educational opportunities and enhance the academic environment. The meeting, chaired by President Bola Tinubu, also allocated N2.5 billion to acquire satellite technology designed to oversee and manage mining activities throughout Nigeria.
Dele Alake, the Minister for Solid Minerals, emphasized the necessity of this satellite technology to monitor illegal mining operations and unregistered sites threatening Nigeria’s natural resources. He noted, “We’ve lost trillions of naira to illegal exploitation of our solid minerals, and this technology will help prevent further devastation.” This initiative aims to address the significant economic losses endured due to unregulated mining practices.
Alake also raised concerns about the interference from certain state governments that have unlawfully shut down mining fields. He clarified, “Though states own the land under the Land Use Act, minerals beneath those lands belong to the Federal Government.” This statement underlines the ongoing conflict over the regulation and management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
In addition to reforms in the mining sector, the FEC confirmed the establishment of new private universities, which include: New City University in Ogun State, University of Fortune in Ondo State, Eranova University and Minaret University in Osun State, Abubakar Toyin University in Kwara State, Southern Atlantic University in Akwa Ibom State, Lens University in Kwara State, Monarch University in Ogun State, Tonnie Iredia University of Communication in Benin City, Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management in Lagos, and Kevin Eze University in Enugu State.
Moreover, the Council approved an allocation of N1.9 billion for an insurance policy covering essential government assets, particularly in the aviation sector. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, stated that this will ensure the protection and security of airports and related infrastructure, contributing to their sustainable operation.
These strategic approvals from the FEC reflect the government’s dedication to bolstering Nigeria’s educational framework, enhancing the management of its natural resources, and securing critical infrastructure for future development.
In summary, the Nigerian government is taking significant steps to expand educational opportunities through the establishment of 11 new private universities while simultaneously combating illegal mining activities with advanced satellite monitoring technology. The commitment of N2.5 billion for these initiatives, alongside an insurance policy for key infrastructure, underscores the administration’s focus on improving education and sustainable resource management in the country.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
