Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has thrown its full weight behind the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Mining Marshals, warning illegal miners and their backers that attempts to undermine enforcement efforts in the solid minerals sector will attract stiff sanctions.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, issued the warning while inaugurating eight newly acquired gun trucks for the Mining Marshals at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja.
The minister described the Mining Marshals as a critical component of the government’s strategy to sanitise the mining industry, boost investor confidence, and unlock the sector’s economic potential as Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify revenue sources away from oil.
Alake commended the special enforcement unit for its role in combating illegal mining activities across the country, noting that its operations have helped protect mineral assets and support legitimate investments in the sector.
“The Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources,” Alake said.
According to him, the successes recorded by the unit have unsettled individuals and groups benefiting from illegal mining activities, leading to campaigns aimed at discrediting the enforcement team.
“It is therefore not surprising that those who have profited from illegality are uncomfortable with their achievements and are resorting to campaigns of blackmail and misinformation,” he stated.
The minister expressed concern over what he described as deliberate attempts by vested interests to harass, intimidate and blackmail officers of the Mining Marshals, stressing that the government would not tolerate any effort to frustrate their operations.
“Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or a civilian, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such. That I can promise you,” Alake declared.
He explained that the deployment of the eight gun trucks forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals and improve their ability to tackle illegal mining networks nationwide.
According to him, the additional assets will enable the unit to respond more effectively to security threats, dismantle illegal mining sites, and safeguard strategic mineral resources.
Alake reiterated that the Tinubu administration remains committed to repositioning the solid minerals sector as a major contributor to national revenue and economic growth.
“The Federal Government remains unwavering in its support for the Mining Marshals and will continue to provide the resources, logistics and institutional backing required for them to effectively discharge their mandate,” he said.
He further called on traditional institutions, host communities, security agencies, and industry stakeholders to collaborate with government in restoring transparency, accountability, and order within the mining industry.
The minister warned that individuals found aiding or abetting illegal mining operations would be identified, investigated, and prosecuted, emphasizing that protecting Nigeria’s mineral wealth is essential to attracting investment and maximising the sector’s contribution to economic diversification.
