This is the worst briefing I have received!

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday berated officials of the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development for failing to properly manage the affairs of the sector.

“This is one of the most demoralizing briefs I have received. The biggest threat to this country besides the Boko Haram is unemployment and the mining sector is key to employment creation.

“We cannot be held back on such a strategic industry that can give us much needed jobs and promote economic growth.

“There must be more seriousness in running this country and we are determined to instill that seriousness,’’ the President said.

The officials were led by the Permanent Secretary, Baba Umar Farouk.

He warned that the Federal Government will no longer tolerate illegal mining and other improper activities that have inhibited the growth of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

Noting that mines and steel sector was very important for the diversification of the economy, the President expressed displeasure at Mr. Farouk’s report that the sector had been overrun by illegal miners.

The Permanent Secretary told the President that Nigeria’s mining sector has been infiltrated by “illegal aliens” who carry out unlawful mining activities in the country.