By Abdullahi Haruna
In a resolute move to fortify the security framework around Nigeria’s mining sites, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has orchestrated the establishment of a formidable Mines Marshal unit, led by the indomitable Super Cop, Attah John Onoja. This groundbreaking initiative is a pivotal component of the minister’s ambitious seven-point agenda aimed at safeguarding the nation’s precious mineral resources and curbing illicit mining activities.
Unveiled on Thursday, the Mines Marshal comprises a robust force of 2,200 personnel meticulously selected from the esteemed Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Dr. Alake, alongside esteemed dignitaries including Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, underscored the imperative of the Mines Marshal in combating mineral theft and enforcing compliance with mining regulations, thereby maximizing Nigeria’s economic potential derived from its abundant mineral wealth.
Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Alake and the collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Interior, spearheaded by Hon. Olubunmi-Ojo, the Mines Marshal emerges as a beacon of hope in fortifying the nation’s mining sector against security threats. With a strategic command structure spanning across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Mines Marshal is primed to ensure swift and effective responses to security challenges within the mining landscape.
Notably, the Mines Marshal is not a solitary endeavor but a harmonious collaboration of various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and Nigerian Army, among others. Embracing cutting-edge technology, the operations of the Mines Marshal will be characterized by efficiency and precision in gathering intelligence and executing directives to combat illegal mining activities.
In his address, the Commandant-General of NSCDC, Abubakar Audi, affirmed the corps’ unwavering commitment to safeguarding national assets, with solid minerals occupying a pivotal position within this mandate. Audi reiterated the Marshals’ resolve to collaborate closely with state mine inspectorates and adhere strictly to directives from the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in fulfilling their mandate.
Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, lauded the establishment of the Mines Marshal as a tangible manifestation of Dr. Alake’s proactive agenda. He emphasized the pivotal role of enhanced security in propelling Nigeria’s economic growth and pledged continued support from the legislative arm to sustain this momentum.
At the helm of the Mines Marshal stands the illustrious Commander, Chief Superintendent of Corps, Attah John Onoja, whose unwavering dedication and no-nonsense approach embody the spirit of this formidable security outfit. With the Mines Marshal now operational, the nation stands poised to harness its mineral resources to the fullest, safeguarding prosperity for generations to come.