The Federal Government has recently taken a significant step in enhancing the effectiveness of the mining sector by deploying an additional 350 operatives to the mining marshals. This initiative, as stated by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, underscores the government’s dedication to the reformation of the mining industry.
During the Passing Out Parade for the new operatives at the NSCDC headquarters, the minister, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, commend the collaborative efforts of the interior counterpart, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the fight against illegal mining. Furthermore, he emphasized the critical role played by the mining marshals in reducing illegal mineral haulage and the activities of unlicensed operators across the country.
Since the inauguration of the first batch of 2,220 mining marshals, there have been significant accomplishments, including the arrest of over 200 illegal mining suspects, ongoing prosecutions of 133 individuals, and the confiscation of illegally mined minerals forfeited to the federal government.
The Minister expressed confidence that the deployment of the new batch of operatives will lead to a wider coverage and improved operational effectiveness of the squad. He also stressed the importance of collaboration between mining marshals and Federal Mines Officers (FMO) to enhance sector sanitization, boost investor confidence, and attract increased investments and development in the mining industry.
Dr. Abubakar Audi, the NSCDC Commandant-General, revealed that the new operatives underwent an intensive 8-week training program, equipping them to reinforce the mining marshals’ operations and intensify efforts against illegal miners nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized the need for continuous training and deployment to ensure comprehensive coverage of the country’s vast mining areas and to maximize the benefits derived from solid minerals. He also highlighted the successful collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Interior in the establishment and deployment of the new batch of mining marshals.
The deployment of the additional 350 operatives brings the total number of specially trained and kitted mining marshals to 2,570 across the nation. This move is set to significantly bolster the government’s efforts in combating illegal mining and ensuring the sustainable development of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
In conclusion, the commitment of the Federal Government to reforming the mining sector is evident in the deployment of the additional 350 mining marshals. These efforts are aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the squad, combating illegal mining, and increasing investments in the mining industry for the economic development of the nation.