Minister Hails NSCDC Mining Marshal on Anniversary, Urges Continued Crackdown On Illegal Miners

The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, has commended the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshal on its first anniversary, urging the specialized unit to remain steadfast in its efforts to combat illegal mining across Nigeria.

The message was delivered to commemorate the first anniversary of the Mining Marshal’s commissioning on March 21, 2024.

Minister Alake lauded the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, for the significant success achieved by the Mining Marshal in the past year, highlighting the high number of arrests made, illegal mining sites dislodged, and the overall protection of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

“The tactical approach of the NSCDC in the discharge of her assigned duties is commendable,” Dr. Alake stated.

He also praised the integrity of the Mining Marshal Commander, ACC John Onoja, who has reportedly refused substantial bribes from illegal miners attempting to evade prosecution.

“The appointment of a diligent Mining Marshal Commander- ACC John Onoja, who has repeatedly rejected lucrative and mouth-watering bribes from illegal miners trying to free themselves from being held responsible for their criminalities are indications that the NSCDC is highly credible and professionally working in tandem with the renewed hope agenda of Mr President.”

Dr. Alake emphasized the positive impact of the Mining Marshal’s integrity on the nation’s economy. “The Mining Marshal Commander and his men have continued to portray and project the image of the NSCDC in a good manner with their refusal to compromise their integrity, which has subsequently safeguarded the mining industry and saved billions of dollars curbing potential revenue losses for the country,” he said.

He urged the Mining Marshal to remain resolute in their crackdown on illegal mining activities, further charging them to maintain vigilance and focus as the federal government intensifies efforts to eradicate the negative impact of illegal miners and other criminal elements within the sector.

The NSCDC Mining Marshal, launched on March 21, 2024, is a specialized unit created to combat illegal mining, protect legitimate mining sites, and ensure the sustainability of the mining sector.

The unit works in close collaboration with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and other relevant agencies to achieve these objectives.

The anniversary marks a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to reform and sanitize the Nigerian mining industry.