The Federal Government is planning to create a special police force to tackle illegal mining in Nigeria. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, revealed this during an interview on the NTA Weekend File. He explained that the government will collaborate with various security agencies to address the issue of insecurity caused by illegal miners. The special police force, to be called the Mining Police Force or the Mine Police, will not only focus on the mining sector but also cover marine and the blue economy. The force will be under the control of the Ministry of Solid Minerals and its personnel will report to ministry officials. In addition, the Ministry has given illegal artisanal miners a 60-day grace period to organize themselves and become compliant with royalty and tax payments. The Minister also mentioned plans to streamline the mining license application process, making it easier and faster for potential investors. The aim is to attract more investors and promote the ease of doing business in the mining sector.