The Federal Executive Council approved 11 new private universities in Nigeria and allocated N2.5 billion for satellite monitoring of mining activities. This decision aims to strengthen the education system and improve the regulatory framework in the solid minerals sector, addressing illegal mining and securing critical infrastructure.
In a pivotal decision, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has sanctioned the creation of 11 new private universities throughout Nigeria, intending to broaden the nation’s higher education landscape and tackle pressing challenges within the solid minerals sector. This decision reflects the government’s dedication to enhancing educational opportunities while addressing concerns over resource management.
During a meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, the FEC also allocated N2.5 billion for satellite technology aimed at monitoring mining operations across the country. Dele Alake, the Minister for Solid Minerals, emphasized that this technology would assist in managing illegal mining activities, which have harmed Nigeria’s natural resources.
Minister Alake highlighted the significant financial loss Nigeria has suffered due to unauthorized mining and asserted, “We have lost trillions of naira to illegal exploitation of our solid minerals, and this technology will help prevent further devastation.” He also noted issues arising from state government interventions, stressing that while states own the land under the Land Use Act, the minerals beneath are federally owned, complicating regulation efforts.
In addition to the satellite initiative, the FEC officially approved the establishment of new universities across various states, with a temporary moratorium on future approvals. The new institutions include:
1. New City University in Ayetoro, Ogun State.
2. University of Fortune in Igbotako, Ondo State.
3. Eranova University in Mabushi and Minaret University in Ikirun, Osun State.
4. Abubakar Toyin University in Oke-Agba, Kwara State.
5. Southern Atlantic University in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
6. Lens University in Ilemona, Kwara State.
7. Monarch University in Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State.
8. Tonnie Iredia University of Communication in Benin City.
9. Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management in Lagos.
10. Kevin Eze University in Mgbowo, Enugu State.
The establishment of these universities is expected to bolster the educational system in Nigeria, creating additional academic avenues for students and promoting growth across various fields of study. Furthermore, the FEC allocated N1.9 billion for an insurance policy to safeguard significant government assets, including critical aviation infrastructure.
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, explained that this policy will ensure the continued operation and protection of essential aviation infrastructure, reflecting the government’s commitment to secure vital resources and enhance the management of Nigeria’s natural wealth.
In conclusion, the FEC’s approval for 11 new private universities marks a significant advancement in Nigeria’s higher education framework while also prioritizing the management of its solid minerals sector through satellite monitoring technology. This initiative is intended to curb illegal mining and protect national resources. Furthermore, the insurance policy for aviation infrastructure signifies the government’s broader commitment to enhancing the security of critical assets.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
