Tunji-Ojo, Dele Alake & Bayo Adelabu Spearheading Critical Infrastructure Protection Agenda

JAMIU JULIUS ADEBAYO

The deployment of the Mining Marshal outfit by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has been a resounding success, silently propelling the Ministry of Solid Minerals, led by Honourable Dele Alake, towards unprecedented heights. The outfit, comprising officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), has proven to be a formidable force against illegal mining, prompting a surge in applications for Operating Mining Licenses (OML) and generating substantial revenue for the government.

This remarkable collaboration has created value in the industry, providing traceable jobs, foreign exchange, and enhanced national security. The proposed national gold reserve will undoubtedly make Nigeria an attractive destination for foreign investors. The duo of Tunji-Ojo and Alake has exemplified the true meaning of teamwork, achieving a common goal through their collective efforts.

In another significant development, Hon Tunji-Ojo, earlier, announced plans to meet with his counterpart in the power ministry, Bayo Adelabu, to establish modalities for protecting national power assets and curbing incessant grid collapses. This initiative, dubbed “Power Rangers,” aims to leverage the expertise of NSCDC and other paramilitary forces to safeguard transmission facilities.

Initially, the idea of creating another security agency raised concerns about duplication of functions amidst revenue shortfalls. However, given the observable success of the Mining Marshal outfit, I am inclined to support the “Power Rangers” initiative. With the necessary paperwork in place, this initiative is poised to enhance power supply, reduce outages, and attract investors to the sector.

The relationship between Minister Adelabu and energy consumers has undergone a significant transformation, with many who previously called for his sack now hailing him as the “Mbappe of Nigeria’s power sector.” Nigerians are praising Honorable Adelabu as households enjoy 15-20 hours of electricity daily. The “Power Rangers” initiative will further boost this progress, ensuring quality output and increased investor confidence.

Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, inter-agency collaboration has reached new heights, yielding remarkable results in the solid minerals and power sectors. The “Power Rangers” initiative is a testament to this collaboration, and I wholeheartedly endorse it. With continued teamwork and strategic collaboration, Nigeria is poised for a brighter future.