The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have intensified nationwide enforcement operations as part of renewed efforts to sanitise the country’s solid minerals sector and ensure strict compliance with mining regulations.
The specialised enforcement unit said its teams, particularly those operating in the South-West, have recorded significant progress in tackling violations and ensuring that mining activities are conducted within the framework of existing laws.
The renewed operation underscores the Federal Government’s determination to eliminate illegal mining, protect Nigeria’s mineral resources and strengthen accountability in the solid minerals sector.
The Mining Marshals were established as a specialised enforcement mechanism of the NSCDC to support reforms in the mining sector and combat illegal exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Onoja Attah, warned mining operators against violating existing regulations, stressing that ignorance of the law would not exempt offenders from prosecution.
“Ignorance of the law will never be an excuse. Every operator must ensure that mining activities are conducted within the ambit of the law. Those who choose to operate outside the regulatory framework will face the full weight of legal consequences,” Onoja said.
He said the intensified enforcement campaign was aimed not only at curbing illegal mining but also at protecting legitimate investors, increasing government revenue and restoring integrity to a sector that has suffered persistent regulatory violations and economic sabotage.
According to him, lawful, safe and sustainable mining practices remain critical to unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
The latest enforcement drive is part of the broader reform agenda of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, which seeks to position mining as a major pillar of economic diversification and national development.
The ministry has consistently stressed the need for regulatory compliance, investor protection and the eradication of illegal mining to improve confidence in the sector and attract responsible investment.
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The renewed enforcement campaign also reflects the strategic direction of the NSCDC under its Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, whose administration has prioritised the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure.
Under Audi’s leadership, the Corps has strengthened institutional support for the Mining Marshals, positioning the unit as a key component of efforts to combat illegal resource exploitation and revenue leakages.
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to collaborating with relevant regulatory agencies and stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria’s mineral resources are exploited responsibly and in accordance with the law.
The Corps said the ultimate objective was to ensure that the nation’s mineral wealth contributes meaningfully to economic growth and remains protected for future generations.
As enforcement operations continue across the country, the Mining Marshals warned that mining operators must comply with all applicable regulations, stressing that compliance is not optional.
