The Federal Government has deployed additional 350 operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to increase the security and surveillance of mining sites in the country.
Rhe Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake who disclosed in a statement on his X handle said the development highlights the government’s dedication to reform the mining sector
According to him: “I am pleased to announce the deployment of 350 additional operatives to the mining marshals, highlighting the federal government’s dedication to reforming the mining sector.
“During the Passing Out Parade for the new operatives at the NSCDC headquarters, I was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe and she commended the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for their joint efforts in tackling illegal mining.
“The accomplishments of the mining marshals in significantly reducing illegal mineral haulage and unauthorized activities of operators nationwide cannot be overemphasised.
“Since the inauguration of the initial 2,220 mining marshals, we have made progress with over 200 arrests of illegal mining suspects, 133 prosecutions in progress, and confiscated minerals forfeited to the federal government.
“The Passing Out Parade of the second batch of mining marshals will bolster our numbers, ensuring broader coverage and enhancing the squad’s operational efficiency.
” By fostering collaboration between mining marshals and Federal Mines Officers (FMO) nationwide, we aim to enhance sector cleanliness, build investor trust, attract more investments, and stimulate development in the mining industry. With the induction of the new operatives, the total number of specially trained and equipped mining marshals deployed across the country now stands at 2,570.
