Nigeria has launched an additional 350 operatives to enhance its mining marshals, reaffirming the government’s dedication to mining sector reform.
– The Passing Out Parade took place at the NSCDC headquarters, with Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe.
– Dr. Alake praised the partnership between the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Interior, recognising contributions from Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the NSCDC in tackling illegal mining.
– He highlighted the mining marshals’ role in curtailing illegal mineral haulage and operations by unlicensed actors, resulting in over 200 arrests and 133 prosecutions since the initial 2,220 operatives were inaugurated.
– The new operatives will bolster sector oversight and investor confidence, supporting the goal of increasing investment in mining.
– NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr. Abubakar Audi, noted that the operatives completed an intensive 8-week training programme.
– Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji-Ojo, emphasised the importance of continuous training and deployment for extensive coverage of mining areas.
– With these new additions, the total number of trained mining marshals has risen to 2,570, enhancing operational capacity against illegal mining activities.