The Federal Executive Council of Nigeria has approved the establishment of 11 new private universities and allocated N2.5 billion for satellite technology to monitor mining activities. This decision addresses crucial challenges in education and resource management, and highlights the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s educational landscape while effectively regulating the solid minerals sector.
In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s education sector and address challenges in the solid minerals industry, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), chaired by President Bola Tinubu, has approved the establishment of 11 new private universities. Additionally, the council allocated N2.5 billion for the acquisition of satellite technology aimed at monitoring mining activities nationwide. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing education and regulating the mining sector effectively.
The Minister for Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, emphasized that the new satellite technology will play a crucial role in monitoring illegal mining operations. He noted the severe impact of unregulated mining on the nation’s wealth, stating, “We’ve lost trillions of naira to illegal exploitation of our solid minerals, and this technology will help prevent further devastation.” Alake also discussed the challenges posed by state interferences in mining regulations.
The newly approved private universities are:
1. New City University, Ayetoro, Ogun State
2. University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State
3. Eranova University, Mabushi and Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun State
4. Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Agba, Kwara State
5. Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
6. Lens University, Ilemona, Kwara State
7. Monarch University, Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State
8. Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin City
9. Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos
10. Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, confirmed these approvals, mentioning a temporary halt on new university applications, indicating the government’s focus on managing existing institutions effectively. In a related decision, the FEC approved N1.9 billion for an insurance policy aimed at protecting key government assets, particularly in the aviation sector, ensuring their ongoing operation and security.
These initiatives signify Nigeria’s commitment to improving educational opportunities and managing its natural resources efficiently. The establishment of private universities is expected to create a more competitive educational landscape, while the investment in satellite technology represents a crucial step towards responsible resource management and safeguarding the nation’s wealth.
The recent approval of 11 new private universities and a substantial investment in satellite monitoring technology by Nigeria’s FEC reflect a strategic effort to enhance education and address illegal mining. This initiative aims not only to improve academic opportunities but also to curtail the detrimental effects of unregulated mining on the nation’s resources. Together, these measures signify a commitment to sustainable development and effective governance in Nigeria.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
