News
Kwara moves to curb bandit influx through mining activities
With Kwara State identified as a potential solid minerals-producing area, the government has developed strategies to curb the influx of bandits through mining activities.
The State Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Chief Abosede Olaitan Buraimoh, disclosed this at the third quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing in Ilorin on Tuesday.
She said a sensitization campaign aimed at educating and empowering traditional rulers to properly profile investors in mining within their domains will be launched as part of efforts to check the possible influx of bandits, in line with existing laws.
Abosede added that the sensitization campaign will also be extended to stakeholders to highlight the dangers of illegal and artisanal mining across the state.
According to her: “The sensitisation campaign will empower traditional rulers to properly profile investors in mining activities within their domains to curb the possible influx of banditry, in line with existing laws.”
She noted that Kwara has been identified as one of the leading solid mineral-producing states in Nigeria and assured that the ministry will maximize the sector’s potential for the benefit of the people.
The commissioner added that the ministry is partnering with the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority to educate miners on safe mining practices and mitigate the effects of radioactive emissions on mining sites.
Buraimoh further revealed that the ministry has strengthened its collaboration with the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service, which has improved revenue generation from haulage consultants.
According to her, the state government is also working on legislation to compel mining companies to reclaim degraded lands for agricultural use after their operations.
She disclosed that Kwara has completed the registration of five special purpose vehicles and is now on the verge of obtaining mining licences for them, in a move aimed at enhancing investment opportunities and boosting internally generated revenue for the state.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security, saying he feels perfectly safe during his visit to the country. His remarks come amid ongoing reports of insecurity in various parts of Nigeria, making his statement a notable endorsement of the nation’s stability in certain regions.
Johnson made the declaration on Thursday, December 4, 2025, while addressing participants at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, the state capital. He acknowledged having read travel advisories and news reports highlighting security concerns prior to his trip but said his experience has been reassuring.
He said he feels perfectly safe in the country and emphasized that the summit environment and local hospitality contributed to his sense of security. He also asked the audience if they felt safe, receiving an enthusiastic affirmation.
During his visit, Johnson commended Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their development initiatives, particularly efforts to provide 24-hour electricity. He highlighted the potential of Nigeria as a hub for innovation and economic growth, noting the opportunities presented by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
While his statements have been welcomed by some as a boost to international confidence in Nigeria, analysts caution that the former prime minister’s experience reflects only a controlled and secure environment within Imo State. Several parts of the country continue to face challenges, including banditry, communal conflicts, and kidnappings.
Nonetheless, Johnson’s visit and remarks are significant, sending a positive message to investors and global observers about Nigeria’s potential for stability and progress. They also underscore the contrast between localized experiences of safety and broader security challenges across the country.
By Emmanuel Iheaka, OWERRI
The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has assured Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State that his group will be one of the biggest investors in the state.
Dangote gave the assurance at the opening session of the Imo Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri on Thursday.
The renowned Africa’s industrialist urged Uzodimma to indicate his preferred area of investment and forget the rest.
Dangote described the Imo governor as a personal friend of decades and commended him for providing enabling environment for investment.
“We will be one of your biggest investors in Imo. So, please tell me the area to invest and we will invest”, Dangote declared.
He called on entrepreneurs to always invest at home, adding that foreigners cannot drive the economy of any nation more than the nationals.
“What attracts foreign investors is a domestic investor. Africa has about 30 percent of the world’s minerals. We are blessed,” he submitted.
Dangote reiterated that his refinery was set to launch 1.4 million barrels per day capacity, the highest for any single refinery in the world.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday declined to accept Prince Emmanuel Kanu’s appearance on behalf of his brother, Nnamdi Kanu, ruling that he is not a legal practitioner.
Boris Johnson Says He Feels “Perfectly Safe” in Nigeria, Praises Imo State’s Progress
Dangote to Uzodimma: Just show me where to invest
Judge rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s brother court appearance
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