President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, he emphasized, is committed to ensuring that the Ajaokuta Steel company works, in order to boost the country’s technological development.
“This will also help us in the areas of arms and ammunitions. And the defence industry will also benefit from this when we get it right.”
Fayemi spoke as a guest lecturer at the National Defence College, Abuja.
The minister said that part of his tasks as minister in charge of solid minerals development is to sign explosives permits for use in quarries and mining sites and that it is important to also track their use as part of efforts to curtail activities of insurgent groups and violent crimes in the country.
He said that there should be a technological approach to tracking the use of explosives by those who sought and obtained permit for its use so that it does not end up in the hands of those who would use it for criminal purposes.
He disclosed that part of the efforts of the ministry is to also educate security agents on how to identify these minerals.
“Many of them do not recognise these minerals. So, in most cases they do not know the value of what the person is taking out illegally.
“so we are partnering with security agencies, the customs, immigration, police, civil defence, to assist us.
“Once we get the regulatory frame work right and create a conducive environment for investment to thrive, we shall witness huge investment in the sector, create wealth and employment opportunities.” [myad]
Home BUSINESS OIL & GAS Buhari Committed To Make Ajaokuta Steel Work, Solid Mineral Minister Assures
