In line with his commitment to overhaul the security framework safeguarding mining sites, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has inaugurated the Mines Marshal, comprising 2,220 personnel tasked with eliminating illegal mining and enforcing mining laws across the nation.
Formally receiving the Mines Marshal from the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abubakar Audi, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Dr. Alake urged the operatives to crack down on illegal miners and uphold the nation's mining regulations.
The establishment of the Mines Marshal follows the initiatives of the presidential Inter-ministerial committee on securing natural resources chaired by Dr. Alake, with support from Hon. Tunji-Ojo. The Minister emphasized ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Police Affairs to bolster the marshal's strength.
With a strategic presence in all 36 states and the FCT, the Mines Marshal will operate under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), deploying 60 operatives initially in each state and the FCT.
Praising the collaborative efforts between his ministry and the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Alake acknowledged Hon. Tunji-Ojo's commitment to actualizing the new security outfit, addressing the pressing need to enhance security in the mining sector.
The Mines Marshal, designed as an inter-agency security unit, will incorporate personnel from various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and the army, with a strong emphasis on leveraging technology for efficient operations.
Commandant-General Abubakar Audi affirmed the NSCDC's dedication to safeguarding national assets, highlighting the critical role of the Mines Marshal in protecting solid mineral resources. Audi assured collaboration with state mine inspectors and swift action against illegal miners.
Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, lauded the establishment of the Mines Marshal, underscoring its potential to bolster Nigeria's economic prosperity through improved security in mining areas. He commended the Minister for translating his agenda into action, pledging continued support from the National Assembly.
Led by Commander CSC Attah John Onoja, the Mines Marshal stands poised to combat illegal mining activities and foster a conducive environment for sustainable mineral resource exploitation in Nigeria.
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