The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have launched a fresh offensive against illegal miners, vowing to clamp down on unlicensed operations sabotaging the nation’s solid minerals sector,
warning unlicensed operators to desist or face prosecution.
Mining Marshals Commander Attah John Onoja said the operations would continue nationwide without a predetermined sequence, as the corps seeks to ensure that mining activities comply with Nigerian law.
The latest operation, carried out in Nasarawa State with the Federal Mines Officer and the state’s mining-regulation team, was intended to enforce mining laws, operational guidelines and safety requirements, Onoja said.
The crackdown aligns with directives from NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi and Solid Minerals Development Minister Dele Alake to curb illegal mining and reduce revenue leakages in the sector, according to the commander.
Onoja warned that mining operators must hold valid licences and meet all regulatory and operational conditions before beginning work.
“All mining operators must possess valid licences and fulfil the requisite regulatory and operational conditions before commencing mining activities,” he said.
