Exposing the Gaps Weakening Nigeria’s Mining Marshals by Zekeri Idakwo Laruba
“To whom much is given, much is expected.” But for the Mining Marshal Squad — one of the key security units tasked with sanitizing Nigeria’s mining industry — the reverse appears to be the case.
Despite operating on the frontlines to secure mining sites and combat illegal operations, the squad continues to battle severe logistical, technological, and welfare-related challenges that threaten to derail its mission.
Recently, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, announced it had generated N6.96 billion in mining fees and registered 118 new private mineral buying centres in the first quarter of 2025.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the figures reflect strategic efforts to raise awareness and attract investors to the sector.
He further disclosed that the Ministry had exceeded its 2024 revenue projection of N11 billion, recording a total of N38 billion — an impressive N27 billion above target.
Although the Minister did not explicitly mention the Mining Marshal Squad, it is evident that this milestone was made possible, in part, by the unwavering efforts of the Corps.
Their commitment to securing mining zones and disrupting illegal operations has helped foster a more enabling environment for legitimate activities and revenue growth — all achieved under highly strained conditions.
At a recent press conference marking the first anniversary of the Mining Marshals, Dr. Alake acknowledged their crucial role. “The corps’ establishment has significantly disrupted unauthorized mining activities and restored investor confidence in our sector,” he said.
He added that the marshals have operated actively across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with their manpower increasing from 2,220 to 2,670 operatives — a sign of the government’s growing enforcement momentum.
“We have an unwavering commitment to further strengthen the corps with improved logistics, additional personnel, equipment, and ammunition, ensuring we decisively eliminate illegal mining,” the Minister assured.
These words offer a promising vision. However, they must now be matched with swift and tangible actions to bridge the gaps that continue to cripple the squad’s full potential.
A Battle Without Basic Support
Established in 2024 under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Mining Marshals were envisioned as a dedicated task force to combat illegal mining and restore order in the solid minerals sector.
However, their lived reality on the ground tells a different story — one of sacrifice without sufficient support.
Commander of the unit, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, recently described the unit’s situation as dire and unsustainable without urgent government attention.
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“Staff welfare is equal to zero,” Onoja revealed. “We are operating on pure sacrifice and patriotism, even in the face of increasing threats arising from our stoic commitment to eradicating illegal mining in the nation.”
Logistical Shortfalls Hindering Response
The squad’s operational efficiency is severely constrained by a lack of basic mobility and field resources. Essential items such as patrol vehicles, radio equipment, protective kits, and communication tools are either in short supply or entirely unavailable.
These limitations have significantly hampered the unit’s ability to carry out timely and effective enforcement, particularly in remote or volatile mining areas.
Technology Deficit Undermining Surveillance
Beyond logistics, the absence of critical technological tools further undermines their operations. Drones, GIS mapping tools, digital surveillance systems, and forensic mining data analysis — essential for tracking and intercepting illegal mining networks — remain out of reach for the Marshals.
Consequently, their operations remain largely reactive, often arriving too late to prevent environmental destruction or resource theft.
Low Morale Amid Welfare Crisis
The psychological and physical toll on officers continues to mount. Many serve without hazard allowances, health insurance, or proper remuneration.
This lack of welfare support erodes morale and heightens the risk of burnout or compromise, especially in a high-stakes environment dominated by well-financed criminal syndicates.
The Case for Strategic Investment
Despite these challenges, the Mining Marshals have shown resilience and patriotism. But their efforts alone cannot sustain long-term gains. Strategic investment in their operations could transform Nigeria’s mining enforcement landscape.
Improving mobility and access to field tools would enable faster and more effective interventions across wider areas. Deploying surveillance technology would allow the squad to transition from reactive to preventive strategies.
Better welfare would boost morale, reduce attrition, and strengthen resistance to corruption. In turn, a secure and well-policed sector would protect the environment, channel resources into legal operations, and increase national revenue.
Dr. Alake has acknowledged the squad’s vital role and pledged stronger support. But as their operational hardships persist, the urgency for action cannot be overstated. Passion alone cannot power a national strategy.
If the government is serious about unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s mining industry, it must invest meaningfully in the tools, technology, and welfare of those protecting it.
Empowering the Marshals is not just about safeguarding mineral resources — it is about securing Nigeria’s future in economic diversification.
Zekeri Idakwo Laruba is the Assistant Editor with PRNigeria and Economic confidential. He can be reached via [email protected]
