The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has hailed the efforts of the Mining Marshals, a specialized enforcement unit formed one year ago, in combating illegal mining activities across Nigeria. Speaking at a press conference to mark the first anniversary of the unit on Friday in Abuja, Alake revealed that the initiative had led to the arrest of 327 offenders and the recovery of 98 illegal mining sites, a significant achievement in the fight against a sector previously rife with illicit activities.
The Minister attributed these successes to the determined and patriotic work of the Mining Marshals, a unit that has played a key role in restoring mining sites to legally licensed operators. Alake emphasized that the unit's efforts have not only curtailed illegal mining but have also mitigated security threats and economic damage caused by the unregulated practice. He commended the team for sending a clear message to illegal miners that their operations would no longer go unchallenged.
"The activation of the Mining Marshals sent shivers down the spine of illegal miners. It is no longer business as usual," Alake declared, highlighting the impact the unit has had on the mining sector. He cited the successful operation at North South Extractive Industries Limited in Kogi State, where over 3,000 illegal miners were flushed out, as a key example of their success.
Other notable recoveries included Ganan Mining Limited in Kuje (FCT), Jinloys Nigeria Limited in Abia State, and Orbit Exploration and Natural Products Limited in Kogi State. The unit's expansion efforts have led to the identification of 457 suspected illegal mining sites and the improvement of intelligence gathering systems, setting the stage for even more rigorous enforcement in the coming year.
In terms of legal action, the Minister noted that 147 illegal mining operators had been arraigned in court, including foreign nationals convicted in Kwara State. This, Alake said, signals the government's firm resolve to continue cracking down on illegal mining across the country.
Looking ahead, Alake outlined plans to further strengthen the unit's capabilities by expanding its reach to cover all states in the nation. The Ministry also plans to integrate advanced technology, including satellite surveillance, drones, and miniature robots, to improve monitoring and enforcement in the sector.
"In the new year, we are committed to providing both air and ground coverage for the security of the solid minerals sector," said Alake, acknowledging the support of security agencies like the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, which have played a crucial role in apprehending illegal miners.
In addition, the Minister announced the creation of an annual award for the Best Report on Solid Minerals Development in Nigeria, to be administered by the Diamonds Awards for Media Excellence (DAME). This initiative aims to encourage impactful journalism in the solid minerals sector, further raising public awareness about the importance of responsible mining practices.
National Commandant of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commander Mathacho Onoja, credited the successes of the unit to the implementation of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Mining Marshals, which was initiated by the Minister. Onoja praised the operatives for their commitment, despite challenges like dangerous terrains and security risks, and emphasized the unit's dedication to protecting Nigeria’s solid minerals sector from illegal exploitation.
With the Mining Marshals expanding their presence nationwide, the Ministry's commitment to reforming and securing Nigeria's mining sector remains unwavering, contributing to the nation's economic growth and positioning mining as a viable alternative to oil revenue.
