The Nigerian government has arrested 327 individuals for illegal mining since the beginning of 2024, as announced by Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr. Dele Alake. At a press conference marking the first anniversary of the Mining Marshals (MM), he noted that 143 of those arrested have been prosecuted with assistance from security agencies.

The MM, established on March 21, 2024, focuses on combating illegal mining and ensuring regulatory compliance. This unit, mainly composed of personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), aims to secure more convictions in 2025 to enhance deterrence within the sector. Alake praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Army for their collaboration.

In a recent case, the Federal High Court in Ilorin sentenced two foreigners, Yang Chao and Wu Shan Chuan, for illegal mining, a prosecution led by the EFCC. Alake also mentioned previous convictions of two other foreigners in May 2024, highlighting ongoing legal actions against such activities.

In 2024, the MM identified 457 suspected illegal mining sites and successfully recovered 98, thereby allowing licensed operators to continue lawful mining activities. This effort is expected to boost government revenue through increased royalties from the solid minerals sector.

Currently active in ten states—including Niger, Kogi, and Akwa Ibom—the MM plans to expand its operations nationwide in 2025, increasing personnel and logistics support for more efficient enforcement.

Despite Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources, the sector struggles due to illegal activities and regulatory challenges, contributing less than 1% to the nation’s GDP. MM Commandant John Attah urged national support for these initiatives to unearth the true economic potential of the mining sector.

The Nigerian government’s crackdown on illegal mining has led to the arrest of 327 individuals and significant prosecutions within the year. The Mining Marshals are enhancing enforcement efforts nationwide to recover illegal sites and increase lawful mining operations. With ongoing challenges in the sector, the government aims to unlock the vast economic potential of Nigeria’s mineral resources through stricter regulations and community support.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria Arrests 327 Illegal Miners Amid Intensified Crackdown Efforts first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.