NSCDC Mining Marshals Intensify Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Mining, Enforce Compliance
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified enforcement operations across mining sites nationwide to curb illegal mining, protect the country’s mineral resources and ensure compliance with established mining laws and safety regulations.
The renewed enforcement drive, being spearheaded by the Corps’ Mining Marshals, is also aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, preventing revenue leakages and promoting responsible mining practices across the solid minerals sector.
In the latest operation, the Mining Marshals conducted an enforcement exercise in Nasarawa State in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer and the state’s mining regulatory team to inspect mining activities and ensure adherence to operational guidelines and safety requirements.
The sustained operations align with the strategic commitment of the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to support the policy objectives of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, particularly in tackling illegal mining and improving governance in the sector.
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Speaking on the exercise, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, said enforcement operations would continue across the country without a predetermined sequence.
He warned that mining operators must obtain valid licences and fulfil all relevant regulatory and operational requirements before commencing mining activities.
Onoja also emphasised the need for regular monitoring and inspection of mining sites to ensure sustained compliance with established safety standards.
According to him, strict adherence to mining regulations is essential to preventing avoidable fatalities, reducing mine collapses and other operational hazards, as well as protecting workers and host communities.
The Mining Marshals urged industry stakeholders to embrace lawful and responsible mining practices, warning that operators found violating applicable laws and regulations would face appropriate enforcement actions.
The Corps reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral resources, strengthening regulatory compliance and creating a safer, more transparent and investment-friendly environment for the country’s solid minerals industry.
