Mining Marshals intensify nationwide crackdown on illegal operators

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Mining Marshals have ramped up enforcement actions nationwide to combat illegal mining and ensure adherence to regulations within the solid minerals industry. The focused enforcement teams, especially in the South-West region, are ramping up their efforts to guarantee that mining enterprises abide by existing laws and regulatory standards.

The Mining Marshals were set up to aid reforms in the solid minerals sector and curb illegal mining activities across Nigeria. The Mining Marshals' commander, Assistant Commandant of Corps, ACC, John Onoja Attah, cautioned operators against breaching mining regulations, emphasizing that lack of legal knowledge would not exempt offenders from legal action.

"Ignorance of the law will never be a defense. Every operator must ensure that mining activities are carried out in accordance with the law," Attah declared. "Those who opt to operate beyond the regulatory framework will be held accountable under the law," he added. Attah explained that the enforcement initiative aimed to curb illegal mining, safeguard legitimate investors, and boost revenue generation from the sector.

He emphasized the necessity of lawful and sustainable mining practices to unlock Nigeria's mineral resources' economic potential. The recent enforcement drive follows the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development's efforts to reform the industry and crack down on illegal mining across the country. The NSCDC pledged to keep collaborating with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to ensure compliance with mining laws and shield the nation's mineral resources.