The Federal Executive Council has approved ₦2.5 billion for the acquisition of a new satellite system to curb illegal mining in Nigeria.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake while briefing State House Correspondents after yesterday’s FEC meeting, said the system when operational will enable the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to track mineral extraction, truck movements, and security at mining sites within the federation.

He also added that over 300 mining cooperatives have been formed to help miners operate legally, while those who refuse to comply are being arrested and prosecuted by the Mining Marshals.

Our correspondent reports that the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim on her part, said council approved half a billion naira for the ministry of innovation, science and technology to supply starter packs for manufacturing of leather goods and footwear.

According to the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, the Council also approved provisional licenses for 11 private Universities in Nigeria.