The Federal Government has reaffirmed its confidence in the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), warning that illegal miners and individuals seeking to undermine the unit’s operations will face severe consequences under the law.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, gave the warning during the inauguration of eight newly acquired gun trucks for the Mining Marshals at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
Alake commended the special enforcement unit for its commitment and sacrifices in the fight against illegal mining, describing its intervention as a critical component of the Federal Government’s efforts to sanitise the solid minerals sector and maximise its contribution to national economic growth.
He noted that the Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining activities, protecting the nation’s mineral resources, and supporting reforms aimed at repositioning the sector as a key driver of economic diversification.
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The minister, however, expressed concern over what he described as deliberate attempts by vested interests to discredit, intimidate, harass, and blackmail officers of the unit.
According to him, many of those opposing the Mining Marshals are beneficiaries of illegal mining operations that have deprived the country of substantial revenue and discouraged legitimate investors.
“The Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources.
“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,” Alake said.
He stressed that the Federal Government remains unwavering in its support for the unit and will continue to provide the logistics, equipment, and institutional backing required for it to effectively discharge its mandate.
“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. That I can promise you,” the minister declared.
Alake explained that the deployment of the eight gun trucks forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals, enabling them to respond swiftly to threats, dismantle illegal mining sites, and secure strategic mineral assets across the country.
He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the solid minerals sector into a major pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda, adding that the administration would sustain efforts to eliminate illegal mining and promote responsible resource development.
