The National Leader of Persons With Disabilities in the African Democratic Congress, Dr. Chike Okogwu, says Nigeria’s reinstatement as a Country of Particular Concern by the United States Government should be taken as a “wake-up call for national reform, accountability and inclusive security.”
This is contained a statement signed by him in Abuja,
According to Dr. Okogwu while the U.S. decision is officially linked to concerns over religious freedom, it also reflects deeper challenges facing the country—especially insecurity, illegal mining and the poor management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The statement notes that armed groups continue to profit from the exploitation of gold, lithium and other strategic minerals, with an estimated three to nine billion dollars lost annually to illegal mining and smuggling.
According to him, these losses weaken national security and strengthen criminal networks operating across mineral-rich areas in several northern states.
The statement stresses that insecurity “disables without discrimination,” pointing out that Persons With Disabilities remain among the worst affected, with many suffering permanent injuries and limited access to rehabilitation services.
The ADC leader urges Nigerians not to react with anger to the U.S. designation but to see it as an opportunity to pursue genuine reforms.
It calls for inclusive security restructuring, transparent defence oversight, full geological mapping and firm action to dismantle illegal mining cartels.
It emphasizes that Nigeria’s mineral deposits—estimated at over 700 billion dollars—could contribute as much as 25 billion dollars in revenue over the next decade if properly harnessed.
According to the statement Dr. Okogwu appeals to the Federal Government to stop financial leakages, strengthen institutions, protect citizens and “include the forgotten,” insisting that the nation’s mineral wealth should drive development rather than fuel insecurity.
