ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Federal Government has expressed confidence in the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, praising the officers for their service to the nation.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, gave the commendation on Wednesday during the commissioning of eight newly acquired gun trucks for the Mining Marshals at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja.
Alake commended the Mining Marshals for their dedication and sacrifices in the ongoing fight against illegal mining across the country, describing their efforts as a key part of the Federal Government’s drive to clean up the solid minerals sector and boost its contribution to economic growth.
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He also cautioned individuals and groups attempting to undermine the operations of the marshals to desist or face the full consequences of the law.
The minister expressed concern over what he described as deliberate efforts by certain individuals and vested interests to discredit, harass, intimidate and blackmail officers of the special enforcement unit.
According to him, many of those opposing the Mining Marshals benefit directly from illegal mining activities that have long deprived the country of revenue and weakened legitimate operators in the sector.
“The Mining Marshals have recorded significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources. It is therefore not surprising that those who have profited from illegality are uncomfortable with their achievements and are resorting to campaigns of blackmail and misinformation,” he said.
Alake stressed that the Federal Government remains fully committed to supporting the Mining Marshals with the resources, logistics and institutional backing needed to carry out their mandate effectively.
“Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or a civilian, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such. That I can promise you,” the minister declared.
He noted that the deployment of the eight gun trucks was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of the unit and improve its ability to respond quickly to threats, dismantle illegal mining sites and secure strategic mineral assets nationwide.
Alake reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to repositioning the solid minerals sector as a major driver of economic diversification, adding that the government would not relent in its efforts to eliminate illegal mining and ensure national mineral resources benefit all Nigerians.
He also urged stakeholders, traditional rulers, host communities and security agencies to continue supporting the Mining Marshals in restoring order, transparency and accountability in the sector.
The minister further warned that anyone found aiding or facilitating illegal mining activities would be identified, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.