The Federal Government has expressed strong support for the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), commending their efforts in combating illegal mining activities across the country.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, gave the endorsement on Wednesday during the inauguration of eight newly acquired gun trucks for the Mining Marshals at the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja.
Alake praised the officers for what he described as their dedication and sacrifices in the ongoing fight against illegal mining, noting that their operations are central to the government’s drive to sanitise the mining sector and boost national revenue.
“The Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources,” the minister said. “It is therefore not surprising that those who have profited from illegality are uncomfortable with their achievements and are resorting to campaigns of blackmail and misinformation.”
He warned that individuals or groups attempting to undermine the operations of the enforcement unit would face legal consequences.
“Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or a civilian, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such,” Alake stated.
The minister also disclosed that the newly deployed gun trucks were part of efforts to enhance the operational capacity of the unit, enabling faster response to illegal mining activities, dismantling of unlawful sites, and protection of strategic mineral assets.
He expressed concern over what he described as coordinated attempts by vested interests benefiting from illegal mining to discredit and intimidate enforcement officers.
Alake reiterated the federal government’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu to reposition the solid minerals sector as a key driver of economic diversification, stressing that illegal mining would not be tolerated.
He further urged traditional rulers, host communities, security agencies, and other stakeholders to support the Mining Marshals in restoring order and accountability in the sector, warning that collaborators in illegal mining activities would be identified and prosecuted.
