By Our Reporter
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating illegal mining, with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, pledging stronger enforcement and enhanced operational capabilities for the Mining Marshals.
As the special corps marks its first anniversary, Alake assured that there will be no hiding place for illegal miners, with plans underway to expand the marshals’ reach and equip them with improved logistics and ammunition.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Alake highlighted the significant strides made by the Mining Marshals in curbing illegal mining and restoring investor confidence in the sector.
He noted that since their deployment, the corps has struck fear into illegal operators and enforced the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (NMMA) with remarkable results.
In just one year, their operations across ten states—Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Kaduna, Enugu, Abia, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory—have led to 327 arrests, 143 arraignments, the recovery of 98 mining sites, and the identification of 457 illegal mining sites.
Despite these achievements, the minister acknowledged that logistical challenges have hampered the marshals’ full operational effectiveness.
However, with an increased budgetary allocation in the 2025 fiscal year, these constraints will soon be addressed.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for approving a budget that aligns with the ministry’s extensive responsibilities, ensuring that the Mining Marshals are better equipped to sustain the fight against illegal mining.
A major boost to these efforts is the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) of N2.5 billion for the deployment of satellite technology to enhance security in the mining sector.
This initiative will provide both air and ground surveillance, marking a significant milestone in the government’s strategy to sanitise the industry.
The minister emphasised that the introduction of satellite monitoring would bolster the effectiveness of the marshals, making it even more difficult for illegal miners to operate undetected.
Reflecting on the impact of the Mining Marshals since their inception, Alake noted that the corps, which started with 2,220 operatives, has now grown to 2,670 personnel.
This expansion, coupled with their enforcement efforts, has significantly increased government revenue from the mining sector while establishing a strong deterrent against illegal mining activities.
He also commended the dedication of the Mining Marshals’ Commandant, ACC John Attah Onoja, for his leadership and commitment to the mission.
In response, Commandant Onoja expressed appreciation for the minister’s unwavering support, acknowledging that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) approved under Alake’s leadership has played a crucial role in the corps’ successes.
He welcomed the federal government’s commitment to providing additional resources and emphasised that the Mining Marshals remain highly motivated to intensify their operations, ensuring that illegal mining is eradicated and the sector operates in a more structured and lawful manner.
