The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has initiated the deployment of a new security architecture to safeguard mining sites, demonstrating his commitment to enforcing the nation’s mining laws and combating illegal mining activities.
Under this initiative, the Mines Marshal, consisting of 2,220 personnel drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has been tasked with cracking down on illegal miners and enforcing regulations to maximize the benefits of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
Led by Dr. Alake, the Mines Marshal received instructions to prioritize securing mining environments during its operations. This launch follows the efforts of the presidential Inter-ministerial committee on securing natural resources, chaired by Dr. Alake, and collaboration with the Ministry of Interior.
Structured as an inter-agency security outfit, the Mines Marshal will collaborate with other security agencies and utilize technological tools for effective operations. Initially deploying 60 operatives in each state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the marshal plans to augment its strength in collaboration with the Ministry of Police Affairs.
During the event, NSCDC Commandant-General Abubakar Audi reiterated the corps’ commitment to protecting national assets and infrastructure, with solid minerals being a significant component. He assured the public of robust enforcement actions against illegal miners, leveraging intelligence from mine inspectorates and directives from the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi, praised the initiative, acknowledging its potential to enhance Nigeria’s economic prospects by improving security around mining areas.
He commended Dr. Alake for translating his agenda into action and assured continued support from the House of Representatives and the National Assembly.