The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals are determined to intensify their efforts against illegal mining operations in 2025. At the NSCDC National Headquarters, Commander John Attah discussed the achievements made in 2024, specifically targeting powerful cartels hindering the nation’s mineral resource management. The establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee has led to the development of strategies aimed at reducing unlawful activities in mining sectors.

Since the launch of the Specialized Mining Marshals in March 2024, over 2,509 trained operatives have been deployed across Nigeria to strengthen security in mining regions. Attah praised the collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals and NSCDC, crediting it with the significant progress in combating illicit mining activities. The squad has successfully shut down illegal mining sites and ensured adherence to legal frameworks governing the industry.

Attah expressed optimism about future operations under Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi’s leadership, emphasising their commitment to rooting out illegal miners and their networks. The Mining Marshals reaffirmed their dedication to intensifying efforts against illegal mining in 2025 to safeguard Nigeria’s extensive mineral wealth from exploitative practices.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals were established to address the rising challenge of illegal mining in Nigeria, which poses significant threats to the nation’s mineral resources and economic stability. In recent years, increased illegal mining activities have led to environmental degradation and loss of government revenue. The collaboration with the Ministry of Solid Minerals marks a proactive approach to enforcing legal mining practices and protecting natural resources.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals are resolute in their mission to eliminate illegal mining activities in Nigeria by 2025. With a focus on strategic collaboration and enhanced operational capabilities, the squad aims to significantly reduce illicit activities that threaten the country’s mineral resources. Their ongoing commitment reflects a serious stance against economic sabotage and a dedication to preserving Nigeria’s natural wealth.

Original Source: thewhistler.ng

The post NSCDC Mining Marshals Pledge to Intensify Crackdown on Illegal Mining in 2025 first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The French government plans to enhance the capabilities of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) by upgrading its laboratory and equipping it with advanced technology. This initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Nigeria, announced during the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Benjamin Gallezot led the French delegation while Nigeria was represented by Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.

Moreover, the commitment extends to funding geological data exploration for the NGSA. A statement from Kehinde Bamigbetan, Alake’s Special Adviser, emphasized the initiative’s impact on promoting critical mineral projects in Nigeria. Gallezot indicated that his department is evaluating French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector to ensure the credibility of prospective investors.

Minister Alake expressed gratitude for Gallezot’s collaboration in developing the MoU aimed at enhancing the two countries’ solid mineral sectors. Bamigbetan also addressed misconceptions regarding the MoU, clarifying that Nigeria is not conceding control over its mineral resources or forming a military alliance with France. The minerals forum serves as an essential platform for fostering understanding and collaboration between the two nations.

NGSA’s Director-General, Prof. Olusegun Ige, highlighted that the absence of advanced technology has hindered exploration efforts in areas rich in mineral deposits. He stressed the importance of cultivating local expertise through international exposure, noting that mining requires ongoing training and skill transfer to remain competitive globally.

This article discusses France’s commitment to upgrading Nigeria’s geological surveying capabilities through modern technological resources. The agreement, made at an international minerals forum, signifies an effort to strengthen cooperation in the mining sector between Nigeria and France, with an emphasis on sustainable development and value chain enhancement in critical minerals. This move also aims to address the existing challenges within Nigeria’s mining industry.

In conclusion, France’s pledge to upgrade Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency marks a significant step in enhancing the country’s mining capabilities. The partnership will not only provide advanced technology and funding but will also foster international collaboration and expertise development, essential for tapping Nigeria’s mineral wealth effectively. Addressing public misconceptions highlights the importance of clear communication in international agreements.

Original Source: freedomonline.com.ng

The post France to Enhance Nigeria’s Survey Agency with Advanced Technology first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

France plans to enhance the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) laboratory by providing advanced technological equipment as part of a recent agreement. This commitment arose from discussions related to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Nigeria. The French delegation, led by Inter-ministerial Delegate Benjamin Gallezot, announced this at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, alongside Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.

The agreement will also include funding for geological data exploration for the NGSA. Following the MoU announcement, there will be collaborative projects aimed at promoting the value chain of critical minerals in both nations. Gallezot shared that efforts are underway to verify suitable French investors interested in Nigeria’s mining sector to ensure they are credible.

At the meeting, Alake thanked Gallezot for the collaboration towards the MoU, which focuses on developing the solid minerals sector. Allegations from political opponents claiming Nigeria would lose control over its mineral resources were dismissed as misinformation. The Future Minerals Forum served as a platform to enhance cooperation between the two countries in designing joint programmes.

Professor Olusegun Ige, Director-General of NGSA, indicated that the lack of advanced equipment has hindered exploration in mineral-rich areas. He highlighted the importance of enhancing local expertise through international exposure and continuous training, crucial for a global mining business.

France’s commitment to upgrading the NGSA’s laboratory is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with Nigeria through the MoU signed in December 2024. This initiative is expected to stimulate the solid minerals sector in both countries by promoting investments and facilitating knowledge transfer. Addressing the technological gap in Nigeria will enhance exploration efforts and ensure the region can better utilise its mineral resources.

The collaboration between France and Nigeria aims to foster development in the solid minerals sector through technological upgrades and joint projects. By verifying French investments and enhancing local expertise, the partnership seeks to optimise Nigeria’s mineral resources management while dispelling misinformation associated with the MoU. This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations and supporting Nigeria’s mining capabilities.

Original Source: aljazirahnews.com

The post France Commits to Upgrading Nigeria’s Geological Survey Agency Laboratory first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government has successfully apprehended 300 illegal miners in a nationwide operation aimed at reducing unauthorised mining activities. This announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, during an oversight visit by the House Committee on Solid Minerals in Abuja. Since the deployment of over 2,000 mining marshals, authorities have seen a significant decrease in illegal mining operations, even among foreign nationals. Dr. Alake credited this achievement to the support of President Bola Tinubu, which has enabled a fruitful collaboration between the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Interior. This partnership allowed for the rapid deployment of resources to safeguard mining areas. Dr. Alake articulated a vision for turning Nigeria into a global mineral powerhouse while emphasising the need for in-country processing to retain wealth within the nation. The Minister expressed optimism regarding the potential of the solid minerals sector to foster sustainable economic development, particularly with increasing revenues and global investor interest. He called for ongoing legislative and institutional support to solidify a robust and respected industry. Meanwhile, Garza Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals Development, reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining transparency and growth in the sector, while emphasising the necessity for improved funding for geological data collection. Gbefwi pointed out the challenges associated with mineral exploration due to its capital-intensive nature, urging for significant financial backing for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) and the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF). He also called for proper management of community consent during licensing to avert potential conflicts, advocating for a transparent framework that respects local rights. Dr. Ogbe, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, reassured continued collaboration with the House Committee to further economic diversification and job creation.

Illegal mining activities have posed significant challenges to Nigeria’s economy, environment, and social landscape. The rise of unregulated mining operations has prompted the government to take decisive action, ensuring compliance with mining laws and regulations. The establishment of mining marshals and inter-ministerial collaborations marks a critical step towards enforcing lawful practices and protecting the nation’s mineral resources. The government aims to reposition Nigeria as a significant player in the global minerals market, focusing on local value addition and processing to enhance economic sustainability.

The Nigerian government’s crackdown on illegal mining through the arrest of 300 illegal miners represents a significant step towards safeguarding the country’s mineral wealth. With a strong commitment from both the Ministry of Solid Minerals and legislative bodies, there is a collective effort to attract investment and promote responsible mining practices. By addressing funding needs and ensuring community involvement, Nigeria can enhance transparency and fortify its position in the global mineral sector.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigeria Arrests 300 Illegal Miners in Nationwide Crackdown first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.