Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced a crackdown on illegal mining, stating that the mining marshals will strengthen their operations across the country. Since their establishment a year ago, these marshals have disrupted unauthorised mining activities and boosted investor confidence in the sector.

During a press conference, Alake revealed that the mining marshals have engaged in direct operations across ten states, resulting in several arrests and the recovery of numerous illegal mining sites. “The mining marshals held direct engagements across 10 states… leading to the arrest of 327 suspected illegal miners,” he said.

Despite facing logistical challenges, Alake highlighted increased budget allocations for the Ministry in 2025, promising enhanced capabilities for the marshals to cover more areas effectively. This budgetary support is also aimed at equipping the marshals adequately.

The Federal Executive Council has approved funding for satellite technology to bolster security in the mining sector, which is expected to improve marshals’ operations significantly. Alake stated that the government’s investment will lead to pioneering monitoring systems for the solid minerals sector.

Evaluating the impact of the past year, Alake reported an increase in the number of mining marshals, with operatives rising from 2,220 to 2,670, which has boosted government enforcement against illegal mining and increased revenue from the sector. He commended the leadership of ACC John Attah Onoja, the Commandant of the Mining Marshals, for their efforts in combatting illegal activities.

Onoja, in response, expressed appreciation for the minister’s support and the successful implementation of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that has guided their achievements over the past year. He affirmed the corps’ readiness to intensify their operations against illegal mining to ensure a sanitized mining environment.

The Nigerian government is intensifying efforts to combat illegal mining with the support of the mining marshals. The increase in operatives, budget allocations, and the deployment of satellite technology are key strategies aimed at disrupting illegal activities and enhancing sector security. The commitment of both the minister and the commandant highlights a focused approach towards reforming the mining industry and boosting investor confidence.

Original Source: www.arise.tv

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