The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have announced a comprehensive operational strategy for 2025, aimed at bolstering their fight against illegal mining activities across the country. This strategic plan centers around three core pillars: intensified field operations, enhanced regulatory compliance, and a renewed public awareness campaign against illicit mining. The marshals also plan to deepen their collaborative efforts with the Mining Cadastre Office, a critical partnership in ensuring the effectiveness of their mandate. This announcement underscores the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s mineral resources and promoting sustainable development within the mining sector.
The Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom, expressed his strong support for the NSCDC Mining Marshals, commending their unwavering dedication and resilience in combating illegal mining despite facing numerous operational challenges. He praised their professionalism and steadfastness in resisting threats, financial inducements, and external pressures aimed at compromising their integrity. Nkom highlighted the crucial role the marshals play in protecting the nation’s economy from saboteurs and contributing to national economic development and environmental sustainability. He also acknowledged the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Audi, Commandant General of the NSCDC, attributing the remarkable progress within the Corps and the mining industry to his guidance and vision.
The NSCDC Mining Marshals’ renewed focus on intensified field operations is a critical component of their 2025 strategy. This involves increasing the frequency and scope of patrols in known illegal mining hotspots, deploying advanced surveillance technologies, and conducting targeted raids based on intelligence gathering. By strengthening their presence on the ground, the marshals aim to deter illegal miners, disrupt their operations, and apprehend perpetrators. This proactive approach is crucial in minimizing the environmental damage caused by illicit mining and ensuring that Nigeria’s mineral wealth benefits the nation.
Another key element of the 2025 strategy is the emphasis on enhanced regulatory compliance. The NSCDC Mining Marshals will work closely with the Mining Cadastre Office to ensure that all mining operations adhere to existing regulations. This includes verifying mining licenses, inspecting mining sites for compliance with environmental standards, and educating miners on responsible mining practices. By promoting a culture of compliance within the mining sector, the marshals aim to create a level playing field for legitimate operators and minimize the negative impacts of mining on the environment and local communities.
The renewed public awareness campaign is a crucial aspect of the NSCDC’s efforts to combat illegal mining. This campaign will focus on educating the public about the dangers of illegal mining, highlighting its negative impacts on the environment, economy, and security. The marshals will engage with local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to raise awareness and garner support for their efforts. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, the NSCDC aims to create a climate where illegal mining is universally condemned and actively discouraged.
The strengthened collaboration between the NSCDC Mining Marshals and the Mining Cadastre Office is a cornerstone of the 2025 strategy. This partnership will enable the marshals to access critical information on mining licenses, land ownership, and environmental regulations. The Cadastre Office will also provide technical support and training to the marshals, enhancing their capacity to identify and address illegal mining activities effectively. This collaborative approach ensures a more coordinated and impactful response to the challenges posed by illegal mining. The Mining Cadastre Office, in turn, is undertaking system upgrades, including the automation of services and streamlining license verification processes, to enhance transparency and further strengthen regulatory frameworks within the mining sector. This initiative aims to create a more efficient and accessible system for legitimate miners while making it more difficult for illegal operators to circumvent the law. The NSCDC Mining Marshals, under the leadership of Squad Commander AC John Attah, have expressed their unwavering commitment to clamping down on illegal mining operations, assuring that legitimate mineral titleholders will be protected and supported in accessing their resources without interference. They also emphasized the importance of their collaboration with the Cadastre Office in addressing the environmental and community challenges associated with unauthorized mining activities, further solidifying their commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices in Nigeria.
