The Need for Public Support in Addressing Illegal Mining Operations in Nigeria
The Mining Marshals, a specialised security force responsible for protecting mining sites in Nigeria, are appealing to the public for assistance in addressing the issue of illegal mining activities that pose a threat to the country’s mining sector. Assistant Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Attah Onoja, who also serves as the Commandant of the Mining Marshals, emphasised the importance of collaboration with Nigerians in their efforts to uphold the law and ensure the security of mining sites.
Onoja underscored the significant role of the Mining Marshals as a unit established by the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Abubakar Audi, with the primary objective of enforcing laws governing mining regulations in Nigeria. He expressed the need for collective support from the Nigerian populace, emphasising that the protection of the mining sector is a national endeavour that requires the involvement of all stakeholders.
The concept of the Mining Marshals was born out of the imperative need to safeguard the mining sector, a critical aspect of the nation’s economy. As part of the core mandate of the NSCDC in protecting national assets and infrastructure, the establishment of the Mining Marshals was deemed essential to address the challenges posed by illegal mining operations.
The proactive stance of NSCDC’s Commandant General, Abubakar Audi, in enhancing the capabilities of the corps led to the collaboration with the Ministry Of Solid Minerals Development in creating the Mining Marshals. This collaboration aims to address the issues of illegal mining activities, revenue generation from the mining sector, and the overall security implications associated with illegal mining.
The official inauguration of the Mining Marshals took place on March 1st, 2024, as part of the Civil Defence Day in Nigeria, signifying a significant milestone in the nation’s commitment to curbing illegal mining activities. This initiative was endorsed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and received strong support from the Ministry of Solid Minerals, under the leadership of Dr. Oladele Alake, aligning with the ministry’s seven-point agenda for the development of the solid minerals sector.
The collaboration between NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals underscores the concerted effort to address the challenges posed by illegal mining through the deployment of the Mining Marshals. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen regulatory enforcement, enhance revenue generation from the mining sector, and mitigate the environmental and security threats posed by illegal mining activities.
In conclusion, the appeal for public support from the Mining Marshals is a call to action for all Nigerians to rally behind the efforts to combat illegal mining and safeguard the mining sector. The shared responsibility of protecting the nation’s resources and upholding the rule of law requires the active involvement and cooperation of every citizen in supporting the efforts of the Mining Marshals. By working together, we can strive towards a more secure and sustainable mining sector for the benefit of present and future generations.
